FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQS) ON TAX INCREMENT FINANCING (TIF) What is Tax Increment Financing (TIF)? TIF is a tool used by local governments, like cities, towns, or villages, to boost their economies and pay for…
by Roland Calia and Daniel Vesecky Click here to read the full report …
by Daniel Vesecky Click here to download an executive summary of the report…
by Daniel Vesecky In October of 2025, Mayor Brandon Johnson released his proposed 2026 budget, which aims to close a…
by Grant McClintock Since opening in September 2023, Chicago’s temporary casino has consistently underperformed revenue expectations. Presented as a potential windfall to support Chicago’s underfunded police and fire pensions, every…
by Christopher Berry, Roland Calia, Eric Langowski, and Annie McGowanClick here to read the full report…
by Daniel Vesecky Note: This summary was prepared in advance of the November 10, 2025, hearing to serve as an easy reference for City Council members, media, advocates, and Chicago residents.With the City of Chicago (Chicago or the ‘…
by Grant McClintock Most of the Chicago Police Department’s (CPD, or the ‘Department’) spending (96.5%) is budgeted through the City’s Corporate Fund, or general operating fund. This analysis provides a snapshot of CPD spending within…
by Daniel VeseckyIn 2019, the City of Chicago (Chicago or the ‘City’) had a budget of $8.9 billion, excluding grants from the State of Illinois (Illinois or the ‘State’) and the Federal government. By 2025, expenditures had grown to $12.4…
