Mayor Johnson Faces Criticism Amid Tense Chicago Budget Talks

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson is negotiating a budget deal to reduce a proposed property tax increase to $68.1 million, down from an initially proposed $300 million. The compromise involves eliminating certain programs funded by federal pandemic relief, such as guaranteed basic income and small business assistance, and restoring police vacancies to comply with a federal consent decree. The plan also includes maintaining a garbage collection fee freeze and scrapping a proposed liquor tax increase. The budget aims to secure 26 City Council votes for passage, with discussions ongoing about alternative revenue sources and budget reforms.