* The Metropolitan Mayors Caucus, a group founded by Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley, is set to propose raising the income tax on “people” from 3 percent to 5 percent and hike the corporate income tax rate from the current 4.8 percent to 8 percent, according to Southtown columnist Phil Kadner.

The group wants to raise $7 billion in new revenue with $2.1 billion earmarked to increase the per pupil foundation level and another $3 billion set aside for property tax relief. […]

“Specifically, the principles call for having the State of Illinois fund at least 51 percent of the cost of funding education in a way that guarantees an increase in education funding from year to year; reducing the reliance on local property sources as a source of funding; and directing a significant portion of new state education dollars to provide greater state funding to under-funded school districts by raising the per pupil foundation level.” […]

However, the memo states, “… the caucus is open to other funding mechanisms, such as combining a lower income tax increase with either a sales tax increase or an expansion of the sales tax base.” […]

The mayors’ proposal sets aside millions in new dollars for special education funding, as well as early childhood education. It also earmarks $500 million to alleviate the deficits in the pension funds for state and City of Chicago teachers.

* Meanwhile, a Tribune-backed “Burnham Plan” for schools is pushed in the paper’s editorial page today…

The plan calls for a better data system to measure student gains and determine teacher and principal effectiveness. It outlines a streamlined process for dismissing inadequate teachers. It proposes a statewide group to drive an Illinois education agenda going forward. It establishes financial rewards for excellent teachers and schools.

Also included: intensive mentoring and induction programs for teachers and principals; financial training for school board members; easier routes to alternative teaching certification for career-switchers; an expansion of the number of charter schools permitted in Illinois; and better reimbursement to districts for costly special education programs.

The plan calls for a pool of money schools could tap if they spend it on research-proven, high-impact strategies: reduced class sizes; smaller schools; longer school days and school years; and parent involvement programs.

* More tax and spend items, compiled by Paul…

* Editorial: Universal health care fails political litmus test

* Expert says nationwide system could save health care

* Editorial: Budget rhetoric leaves us with too many questions

* FOP President: Invest in ‘preschool for all’ for a more secure future

* Uncertainly rules in Springfield as officials face tough issues

* Editorial: Wanted: A strong leader

* Illinois higher education funding dwindles