Mayor Johnson’s record-setting $1 billion TIF surplus highlights issues and abuse of Chicago’s Tax Increment Financing districts

Chicago's Tax Increment Financing Districts Under Scrutiny

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson has unveiled a plan to address the city's $1.15 billion budget shortfall for 2026, which includes declaring a record-setting $1 billion "surplus" in the city's Tax Increment Financing (TIF) districts.

This move would result in an additional $232.6 million in revenue for the city and $552.4 million for the Chicago Public Schools budget. However, many aldermen are questioning the decision, citing concerns about the fundamental issues with TIF districts themselves.

According to the Director of Fiscal and Economic Analysis, Chicago Tax Increment Finance "surpluses" have increased more than ninefold in the past decade, highlighting potential issues and abuse of these districts.

Illinois' comeback story starts here.

Author's summary: Mayor Johnson's plan sparks scrutiny of Chicago's TIF districts.

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Illinois Policy Illinois Policy — 2025-10-26

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