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Pritzker: “I want them to work their differences out so that we can get something done”

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When she was campaigning, Lightfoot said the [revenues from a new graduated real estate transfer tax] would go to programs aimed at reducing homelessness in the city. And now 13 Democratic lawmakers – including 10 from Chicago – have signed a letter saying they will not vote for Lightfoot’s proposal unless at least 60% of the revenue the tax generates is “statutorily dedicated” to combatting homelessness.

Lightfoot has balked at that proposal, saying last week: “That’s never going to happen.”

Lightfoot argues that given the budget deficit the city faces it would not be responsible to commit to spending “in perpetuity” 60% of the revenue the new tax would bring in on reducing homelessness, given that there are other worthy causes that also deserve extra funding.

* Gov. Pritzker was asked about the future of the mayor’s RETT proposal today…

I’ve been encouraging lawmakers to work with the mayor. As you know there are some lawmakers who are concerned where the dollars from the real estate transfer tax would go. I want them to work their differences out so that we can get something done. […]

I’m looking for direction from the mayor. We want to make sure we do what’s best for the city as well as the entire state of Illinois. My responsibility extends beyond the border of the city of Chicago. So, I’m relying on the mayor to come back with a plan that will allow us to get the votes that are necessary. But there are Chicago legislators who have real concerns. I think they’re reflecting concerns that are coming from aldermen. And so I’d like them all to get on the same page. And I think that’s something the mayor’s working to do.

* He was also asked about changes to the gaming bill to help the city land a casino…

I’ve been working with the mayor’s team, our team has, to try and craft something that will work and with which we can garner Downstate votes and collar county votes for something that’s good for Chicago. And the mayor, I know, is committed to getting that done. She’s been making calls and I’m hopeful that we’re going to be able to garner enough votes for that next week.

posted by Rich Miller
Thursday, Nov 7, 19 @ 1:51 pm

Comments

I am beginning to like the way the Mayor always gives herself wiggle room in her statements

Comment by DuPage Saint Thursday, Nov 7, 19 @ 2:26 pm
=== He was also asked about changes to the gaming bill to help the city land a casino…===
I know she will have to offer something up to get suburban and downstate votes to change the gaming law. But by opening that Pandora’s box she better be careful. Already some of the “fixes” being floated for other gaming issues can be contentious and could sink her hopes. She would be better off keeping the gaming bill simple and doing her trade offs with other issues.

Comment by Been There Thursday, Nov 7, 19 @ 4:03 pm
I say just raise everyone’s real estate taxes. That way people know the true cost of these progressive programs.

Comment by AnotherAnon Thursday, Nov 7, 19 @ 5:23 pm
=== I’m relying on the mayor to come back with a plan that will allow us to get the votes that are necessary. ===

Pritzker is a fast learner. Should have thrown an “It’s under consideration” just to get the message across.

Comment by Thomas Paine Thursday, Nov 7, 19 @ 7:15 pm