Breaking News: City Council Budget Vote

City of Chicago Budget Update: Dear 7th Ward Family: As you know, the City of Chicago, the State of Illinois and the United States of America are all experiencing grave financial hardships. Over the past few weeks, I, along with my colleagues in the City Council, have been working tirelessly with Mayor Rahm Emanuel to craft a balanced budget, which would keep our city safe and functioning, employees working and vital services in place, while avoiding property or sales tax increases.  Undoubtedly, this process was painful and the results are not perfect; but the good news is they are not permanent. Therefore, as our economy rebounds, our city will be able to restore funding to critical programs, strengthen operational efficiencies, extend employment opportunities, and create robust economic development. Within this $6.3 billion fiscal budget, there are a host of new fines and fees, however, the majority of these penalties are designed to punish those who violate the law and undermine the safety of communities, appearance of neighborhoods and overall wellness of our city. I do want to thank all the 7th Ward residents who called my office, wrote letters and emailed me about proposed library cuts, layoffs, and other city essentials. Fortunately, through the art of compromise, this budget reflects:  ·        $3.3 million restored to the library budget, allowing for a full six-day work week schedule;  ·        A reduction versus elimination of the condo rebate program (from $75 to $50);  ·        $1 million dedicated to vacant lot maintenance, weeding cutting & graffiti removal;  ·        Discount water fees for non-profit organizations, based upon annual income;  ·        City sticker increase ($10 increase for light vehicles & $15 for heavier tier)  ·        Consolidation of city department to increase efficiency;  ·        Garage collection governed by a grid system; and ·        The elimination of the business head tax, which will help small businesses and promote economic growth. One aspect of the budget which I want to make sure 7th Ward residents fully understand is regarding the increase in water and sewer fees. Since our ward, is one of the hardest hit by flooding, this increase will begin to address the city’s aging infrastructure, by replacing 900 miles of century-old water pipes, relining of 750 miles of sewer lines, relining of 140,000 sewer catch basins, and upgrading the City’s four aging, steam-powered water pumping stations.  Further, and most importantly, it will boost the City’s economy by creating 18,000 jobs over the next 10 years. These improvements will not end our battle with flooding immediately, however it will start to move us to dryer and higher ground. In the interim, I strongly encourage you to enroll in the MeterSave Program, a free water meter initiative designed to save you money on your water bill. To learn more and/or to register, visit www.metersave.org. or call (312) 744-4H2O. In closing, thank you for your continued support and commitment to improving our city. Together we can make the 7th Ward a safe, thriving and healthier community. If you have any further questions and/or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the office at (773) 375-9180. Respectfully, Alderman/Committeeman Sandi Jackson, 7th Ward