Chicago: Mayor Brandon Johnson Welcomes Metropolitan Mayors Caucus, Builds on Bipartisan Coalition That Held the Line on Local Government Funding

CHICAGO ~ Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson welcomed members of the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus Executive Board to the city today to discuss and advance shared priorities for communities across the region. This meeting comes after a successful effort by the Caucus, along with the Illinois Municipal League and municipal leaders from across Illinois, to prevent a proposed cut to critical Local Government Distributive Fund (LGDF) revenues earlier this spring. As they look ahead to the fall veto session, these leaders are determined to continue their work in protecting vital resources for their communities.

Mayor Johnson expressed his gratitude for the collaboration and unity among mayors in preventing the proposed reduction of LGDF funds. "Mayors came together this spring because we knew what was at stake, and together we made sure the State did not cut critical funding for our communities," he stated. "That is a win worth recognizing, and it shows what is possible when municipalities stand together."

In Springfield, Mayor Johnson was joined by mayors from all over Illinois in opposing Governor's proposal to reduce LGDF funds by $60 million statewide, with Chicago facing a loss of $12.7 million. This proposal would have decreased the municipal share of state income tax collections from 6.47% to 6.28%. However, thanks to their efforts, this proposal was ultimately rejected. Despite this victory, municipalities continue to face significant inflationary pressures and are calling for LGDF funds to be restored to their historic 10% level.

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Chair of the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus John Noak emphasized that mayors are responsible for delivering essential services and programs that taxpayers rely on every day. "Everyone, including our residents, are seeing an increase in costs," he said. "In order to maintain these vital services, it is imperative that residents see a return on the taxes they send to Springfield."

The reduction of LGDF funds has been an ongoing issue since 2010 when it was decreased from 10%. Since then, municipalities across the state have lost a total of $13.9 billion in revenue. If the funds were still at their full 10% share, Chicago would have received an additional $250 million in LGDF revenue in FY2024.

Aside from discussing the LGDF issue, today's Executive Board meeting also focused on other shared priorities affecting communities across the region. These include statewide housing initiatives, environment and energy policy, and housing and community development. The upcoming fall veto session of the Illinois General Assembly was also a key topic of discussion.

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Chair of the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus Legislative Committee Jerry Bennett stressed the importance of continuing to push for a path to full restoration of their local share of state income taxes. "For the state to thrive, our local communities need to thrive, and that requires continued investment," he stated.

Incoming Executive Committee Chair Donny Schmit echoed this sentiment, stating that addressing the shortfall of state funding has been a priority for the Caucus and mayors across Illinois for many years. He pledged to continue this fight in his new role.

The Metropolitan Mayors Caucus is a bipartisan organization that represents 275 municipalities and over 9 million residents in northeastern Illinois. It brings together mayors, village presidents, and town presidents from across the Chicago region to work on issues of regional significance. With their united efforts, these leaders are determined to protect their communities and ensure continued investment for their residents' well-being.

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