The Latest Breaking News from City Council

Afternoon Edition: The pop-up movement reshaping Chicago’s restaurant scene

Plus: Ald. Ramirez ‘attacked’ by protesters, La Salle Street revamp’s future, and more.

Chicago Sun-Times · Oct 19, 2023

Johnson’s plan to declare record $434M TIF surplus threatens plans to transform LaSalle Street office buildings into residential use, City Council members say

Alderpersons Bill Conway (34th) and Brendan Reilly (42nd) sounded the alarm about the future of “LaSalle Street Reimagined” during Wednesday’s budget hearing, seeking assurances from city planning officials that developers now fronting huge costs can count on the city to be their partner.

Chicago Sun-Times · Oct 18, 2023

After latest ‘street takeover’ on Lower Wacker, alderperson says it’s time to hold parents responsible for their kids

Ald. Ray Lopez introduces an ordinance that would fine parents and require family counseling and community service for minors who commit a host of offenses.

Chicago Sun-Times · Oct 16, 2023

Defense hints at strategy as lawyers prepare for ex-City Council dean’s long-awaited trial

Former Ald. Ed Burke is accused of using his seat on the City Council to steer business to his private law firm amid schemes that involved the Old Post Office, a Burger King at 41st Street and Pulaski Road, and a Binny’s Beverage Depot.

Chicago Sun-Times · Oct 13, 2023

City Council approves Israel solidarity resolution after fiery, tense session in which protesters were cleared from chambers

Mayor Brandon Johnson cleared the room of the public around an hour into the special session to pass Ald. Debra Silverstein’s (50th) resolution to condemn Hamas, which opponents said lacked the nuance to also condemn Israeli treatment of Palestinians.

Chicago Sun-Times · Oct 13, 2023

Brandon Johnson’s budgeted amount for migrant crisis, $150 million, will only last six months, his floor leader says

If Springfield doesn’t step up and cover half of Chicago’s costs and “operate its own shelters,” Ald. Carlos Ramirez-Rosa warned that a supplemental appropriation may be required in mid-year.

Chicago Sun-Times · Oct 13, 2023

Iowa Man Files Lawsuit After Being Arrested Twice for Criticizing the Police at a Public Meeting

"Ironically, the actions of the police department have only proven my point," Noah Petersen said after being handcuffed, arrested, and jailed for his speech.

Reason · Oct 13, 2023

Mayor Johnson’s ‘people’s budget’ promises a lot — but can it deliver?

There are things to potentially like in the mayor’s first budget. But there is an all-important issue on which the upcoming City Council budget hearings must shed considerable light: Does it all add up?

Chicago Sun-Times · Oct 12, 2023

City Council sets special meeting for Friday on Israel solidarity resolution

Citing security risks, Ald. Brian Hopkins tried to restrict public comment to virtual participation and close the public seating galleries. Mayor Brandon Johnson ruled that motion out of order, saying the public has the right to speak in person.

Chicago Sun-Times · Oct 12, 2023

Brandon Johnson’s budget address reveals how Chicago plans to address crime, migrant crisis and property taxes

The mayor presented $16.6 billion 2024 city budget to the City Council today. Here’s how he wants to use taxpayer money.

Chicago Sun-Times · Oct 11, 2023