# Home Ownership Announcement 6.1.26

- Date: June 1, 2026
- Type: Video
- Length: 52:04
- Topic: Announcements
- Video: [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jY_gm2Vvdu0)
- Transcript: Machine transcription, 6,489 words ([text](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/files/transcripts/youtube/jY_gm2Vvdu0.txt))
- Mayor: [Brandon Johnson](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor)

## Description

Mayor Brandon Johnson makes a major home ownership announcement.

## Transcript

[1:33](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=93) Yeah, come up some a little bit. Yeah. Thank you. Well, good afternoon, everyone. Good afternoon. Well, thank you for being here. I'm proud to stand alongside of our Department of Housing Commissioner, Lissette Constaneda, VP for Full Circle Homes and the Resurrection Project, Kristen Camora, and, of course, NHS President and CEO, Anthony E. Simpkins, whose leadership and commitment have made today possible. I'm grateful that in Chicago, government, community leaders, as well as private partners,

[2:06](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=126) share a vision of expanding home ownership opportunities and affordable housing for working families. We believe every Chicagoan deserves to be able to afford to plant roots, raise children, grow old, and then watch their family grow old in our great city. But for too many Chicagoans, even with years of saving and working, the dream of home ownership feels out of reach. Rising costs and burdensome down payments continue to create barriers for working families.

[2:41](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=161) That is why it is a top priority of my administration to expand affordable housing and create home ownership opportunities in every single neighborhood. And with that, today I'm proud to announce the launch of the Homegrown Purchase Assistance Program. This initiative invests $21 million from our $1.25 billion housing and economic development bond, the largest public investment in the history of Chicago.

[3:12](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=192) Through the initiative, we will provide up to $70,000 in grant assistance for low- to moderate-income homebuyers that will help with down payments and closing costs. Public-private partnerships are essential to our work of investing in people. Neighborhood Lending Services and Affiliate of NHS Chicago and the Resurrection Project Lending

[3:44](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=224) were selected via our request for proposals to administer the program. These organizations are trusted and have a proven track record of helping families navigate the home buying process and access pathways to stability. The Home Grown Initiative assists with funding and requires home buyer education counseling to ensure program participants are well prepared for their purchase. Through this initiative, working Chicagoans and families will have the support they need

[4:17](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=257) and the ability to purchase homes, remain in their neighborhoods, and invest in their futures. In doing so, they will grow entire communities into safer and more affordable and thriving neighborhoods. And through the $1.25 billion housing and economic development bond, my administration will continue to make investments in affordable housing, construction and preservation, and home buying assistance. And with the continued support of our partners, we will ensure that every family can access safe, affordable housing

[4:51](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=291) and the opportunity to build generational wealth in their own communities. I want to again thank the Resurrection Project, the NHS Chicago, for their leadership and partnership that made today possible. And thank you all again. But I also want to give a special thanks to Commissioner Constaneda and her entire team for their continued hard work and commitment of making the dream of homeownership a reality to all of Chicago.

[5:21](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=321) Thank you all again. And with that, please welcome Commissioner Constaneda. Good afternoon, everyone. I am so excited to be here with all of you for this incredible announcement. All across the country, housing costs have skyrocketed, and for many working-class families, home ownership is something that feels just impossible. The Homegrown Purchase Assistance Program is designed to bridge this gap for Chicagoans, so they too can have stability and build equity that can be passed down to future generations.

[5:59](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=359) I want to thank Mayor Brandon Johnson for his vision of Housing for All that gave the department the space to make this program a reality. As Mayor Johnson mentioned, Homegrown will provide up to $70,000 in funds for down payment assistance and closing costs. Properties citywide will be eligible. Assistance is targeted by income and geography, with eligible properties set in two zones. Zone A includes areas where neighborhoods have experienced significant increases in home sale prices,

[6:32](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=392) and Zone B includes low-income census tract areas. Eligible homebuyers must meet income and mortgage requirements, complete homebuyer education counseling, and contribute at least 1% of the original purchase price from personal funds. Grand funds may not exceed 25% of the property purchase price before any other down payment assistance is applied. And participating homeowners must also occupy the purchased home as their principal residence for a minimum of five years.

[7:04](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=424) We are proud to work with Neighborhood Lending Services and TRP Lending, two organizations with deep roots in the community. Their extensive experience connecting Chicagoans to housing opportunities will allow this program to be a success from day one. I am grateful to be in partnership with groups who share DOH's commitment to housing equity. No matter where Chicagoans are in their housing journey, this administration is working to ensure that they have quality, safe, and affordable homes. Under Mayor

[7:36](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=456) Johnson, we are investing in non-congregate shelters for residents experiencing homelessness, affordable housing developments for renters, home repair programs for homeowners, and now those who are looking to purchase a home have a new tool to make that a reality. Homegrown applications will go live in one week, and you can learn more about this program, what documentation applicants will need, and more at chicago.gov slash homegrown. Thank you for being here as we celebrate this new chapter for Chicago.

[8:09](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=489) Before I turn the mic over, I want to thank my incredible staff, particularly Destiny, Steph, and Tamara. And with that, I would like to introduce the Vice President of Full Circle Homes, Kristen Kamara. Hi, good afternoon. Good afternoon. Thank you, Commissioner Castaneda, and thank you, Mayor Johnson, for your leadership on housing. I'm Kristen Camaro with the Resurrection Project and our lending affiliate, TRP Lending.

[8:45](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=525) I'm excited to be here today with the City of Chicago, the Department of Housing, and our partner, Neighborhood Housing Services, to announce the launch of the Homegrown Purchase Assistance Program. For 36 years, the Resurrection Project has been a powerful engine for social and economic change. rooted deeply in community. We are a single unified movement dedicated to advancing immigrant and housing justice. Throughout our history, we've invested in people and communities to ensure

[9:16](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=556) immigrants and families have a stable place to live and the rights and protections necessary to thrive and build a secure future. Home ownership is one of the most important tools individuals and families have to build stability, create generational wealth, and contribute to safe, strong communities. Yet we know many families are priced out due to rising home prices and limited access to funds and resources for down payment assistance. Through Homegrown and the Resurrection Project's integrated housing model, which includes financial education, realty services, and lending support,

[9:53](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=593) we're expanding access and opportunity for new homeowners across Chicago. As a Community Development Financial Institution, or CDFI, we bring financial resources from home purchase and housing co-op loans to home improvement and purchase assistance grants. Our financial products, technical assistance, and coaching make homeownership more affordable for working families. The Homegrown grant can be used for down payment assistance and closing costs when purchasing a single-family home, condo, townhome, or two-unit property.

[10:27](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=627) and it's forgiven over five years. It's one more resource we're very proud to offer. We're thrilled to be administering this resource for the City of Chicago. We see this as more than purchasing a home. It's about building community and championing housing justice for families, neighborhoods, and the future of this city. Applications for Homegrown will open to homebuyers on Monday, June 8th, and eligible homebuyers can apply online through the Resurrection Project's website.

[10:59](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=659) Thank you. And now I'll pass it to the President and CEO of NHS of Chicago, Anthony Simpkins. Thank you, everyone, and thank you, Mr. Mayor and Commissioner Castaneda for making this resource available. You know, working families are the backbone of this great city, and we know that homeownership is a primary pathway to building both family and community wealth.

[11:29](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=689) Today, however, far too many working families in Chicago are ready for homeownership but remain locked out by the upfront cost barriers that have accelerated in today's really challenging housing market. So the Homegrown program directly addresses that gap, creating a pathway for more residents to become homeowners, build equity, remain rooted in their communities, and participate in the long-term economic future of their neighborhoods.

[12:01](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=721) Through our lending affiliate, Neighborhood Lending Services, as well as our ancillary services, homebuyer education, financial counseling, real estate development, and real estate brokerage, we bring a panoply of services to support these aspiring homeowners. And NHS is proud to work with the City of Chicago to help ensure this vital resource is deployed effectively to reach the families and the communities that need it. So thank you.

[12:35](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=755) Okay, we're going to go ahead and get started with Q&A. We have time for one question, one follow-up on homegrown. Are there anyone that has any questions about homegrown? Maybe we should just ask that. All right. There are no questions for? Any home would be eligible as long as it is within the City of Chicago, one to two units.

[13:09](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=789) townhomes condos so if there is a vacant home and someone is looking to purchase that this would be eligible for that correct this would be for purchase price and for closing costs and so we would apply it in that sense so that there would be more money available for things like rehab

[14:52](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=892) It's good to have a ringer in there, isn't it? He knows how this stuff works in the real world, right? I'll move this closer.

[18:36](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=1116) I'm going to wait for him to get his camera fixed. I'm going to try to give him another second or so, if not.

[20:51](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=1251) Okay, perhaps we can try to share the video for you. But thank you all. I mean, let them continue to work on that. Well, thank you all again for joining us this afternoon. I appreciate you all being here. I do want to take a brief moment to speak to you all regarding our progress in Springfield and the measures that we fought to secure, which will make a difference in the lives of all of Chicagoans. we do want to thank the members of the Chicago delegation

[21:21](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=1281) and the members of the General Assembly who have advocated for progressive revenue and continue to fight for the interests of Chicagoans I'm proud to work with these members and I'm proud of the work that we did along with members of my office local leaders from across the state working with mayors all over the state of Illinois to ensure that the local governments continue to receive the important and committed funding that we need to keep our cities running.

[21:54](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=1314) While we would like to see the local government distributive fund share restored to previous levels, by maintaining the current rate, we will be able to continue the provision of local services while providing relief for taxpayers in Chicago. I do want to thank all of our partners at the Metropolitan Mayor's Caucus and the Illinois Municipal League for working with us to see these funds restored and appreciate the governor's office and leadership for responding to the challenges that we face as local leaders.

[22:28](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=1348) We saw the state followed our lead and institute a social media amusement and responsibility tax, a groundbreaking revenue source which we pioneered right here in Chicago. In the same vein, we are pleased that the state included a digital ad tax as one of the revenue measures in the final budget package. I have long called for this kind of progressive revenue, and I am heartened to see it move forward at the state level.

[23:00](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=1380) As the economy continues to shift and digital media becomes more dominant, it is essential that the big tech corporations who have made untold billions through targeted advertising are a part of the solution as we work to respond to the challenges our residents face on a daily basis. Additional progress was made closing corporate tax loopholes, which will raise much-needed revenue without burdening working families. Although there is more work to be done, we're thankful for members of the legislature, particularly members of the Progressive Caucuses, in both chambers, and the budget leaders.

[23:39](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=1419) Although they didn't prevail in every respect, this is meaningful progress in the fight that we have been leading to finally make the tax code work for working people. As leaders from across Illinois, we must continue to fight for full funding of vital public services while challenging the ultra-wealthy and the largest corporations to pay their fair share in taxes. That commitment to fiscal fairness and responsible governance also shapes how we approach major economic development opportunities, including long-term investments in major infrastructure projects.

[24:15](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=1455) And then, of course, on the Bears' stadium proposal. Many of you may recall that Chicago put forward a clear framework two years ago built on three pillars. Public ownership, an existing sports authority with a dedicated revenue stream, and capital infrastructure backed by a completed traffic study. Those principles ultimately became the foundation for the broader legislative proposal that was considered as the only viable option by legislators.

[24:56](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=1496) This was the only framework that was ever released for true public consideration. The mega-projects bill was shelved due to legitimate concerns over a $1.5 billion property tax giveaway to a private entity and lack of clarity around the plan in Arlington Heights, which we are still awaiting. As noted, Chicago's plan is the only one that protects property taxpayers and avoids any new taxes on residents while driving meaningful investment of the museum campus and the future of the city of Chicago.

[25:42](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=1542) We have been consistent with those principles from day one, and we remain committed to meaningful conversations with all stakeholders as we work to keep the Chicago Bears in Chicago. With that, thank you again for being here, and I'm happy to answer any questions that you might have. All right. One question, one follow-up. Marianne, do you want to get started? Mayor, thank you very much. So, of course, people are asking where. Now you've got this second chance or third or fourth or fifth chance.

[26:15](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=1575) Where do you want to put the stadium, and how are you going to pay for it? Well, I mean, listen, we've already answered how we're going to pay for it. I proposed that two and a half years ago. The Bears were going to pay 70 to 75 percent of the cost to build the stadium. The other 22 percent of the stadium would be paid for by an existing structure, ISFA, the Illinois Sports Facilities Authority, which was established 40 years ago nearly by Mary Harrah Washington, to build stadiums.

[26:47](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=1607) It's a 2 percent hotel tax. So, in other words, the stadium would be paid for by the Bears and visitors. As far as where the stadium belongs, I still believe the lakefront is the best location. But where at the lakefront because it doesn't seem as if the Bears think that? Well, again, the proposal two years ago was actually on that site, right? Again, the problem was we didn't have cooperation from Springfield. What is interesting, though, is the very frame in which we put forward two years ago alongside with the Bears,

[27:17](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=1637) That's the framework that the legislature has used to create another option. The difference between ours, though, is that our proposal actually protects the taxpayers. It's not clear on whether or not what's been proposed by the legislature, if new taxes would actually have to emerge in order to move forward. And keep in mind, there is still no traffic study for Arlington Heights. There is still no plan there. They're the only viable plan for a publicly owned stadium.

[27:48](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=1668) That was established two years ago in our initial framework, of which now the legislature has actually attempted to codify. Do you mean, when you say the lakefront, do you mean the current Soldier Field location? Yeah, if you go back and look at the proposal, it wasn't the current location. It was just to the south, if you recall. Thank you. Hi, Mayor. Hi. So this is a long, convoluted, you know, years-long story. Who dropped the ball in this last legislative session? Why is this not done yet? Why, what isn't done? How come the Bears haven't been able to make an actual decision in your understanding?

[28:21](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=1701) Well, I mean, look, I only can speak for my responsibility in terms of putting forth a viable plan, of which we've done. You know, I can't speak to Springfield. What I can say, though, is I am still ready to have conversations with all of our stakeholders to keep the Bears right here in Chicago. Again, the only viable plan for a publicly owned stadium was the one that I presented. We have said from the very beginning, the proposal that we put forth was a proposal that the Bears would pay for 70 to nearly 75 percent of a stadium that the people of Chicago would own.

[29:00](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=1740) So it's good to know that, unfortunately, it took two years for the conversation in Springfield to get behind our proposal and plan for a publicly owned stadium. But keep in mind, that structure already exists with a current revenue stream. What's been proposed in Springfield, there is no clear interest. indication on how revenue will be generated. And that's why I believe that you've already heard from surrounding mayors, not just the particular city that the Bears purchased their property in, that they have some real legitimate concerns around the fact that there is no traffic study after three years.

[29:38](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=1778) And here we've had a viable plan for the last two years that we're just hoping at this point that we can have more substantive conversations with our stakeholders, the Bears, the General Assembly, the governor's office, to ensure that the only viable plan actually gets a fair shake at being delivered. When the Bears released their statement today, they said that they were still looking at Arlington Heights and Hammond, but they didn't mention Chicago. Are they still talking to your city, to Chicago?

[30:08](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=1808) Well, look, my door is always open, has been reported. We were in conversations as recently as a month ago. I guess a month and a half ago now, it's June. But again, I just want to reiterate, there is no plan for Arlington Knights. There is no clear indication of how what has been proposed, though it did not pass, how revenue would actually be generated. What we have said from the very beginning, the only viable plan for the Bears was proposed by my administration along with the Bears two years ago.

[30:39](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=1839) So any conversation other than what the plan actually entails could be some indication on why the process was so arduous there, where, again, the fact that they came to the conclusion that we already came to two years ago, I think it's just further evidence that the most viable publicly owned stadium that the Bears would essentially pay two-thirds of the cost and visitors through a hotel tax that already exists would pay for the remaining costs at the top tourist destination anywhere in the state of Illinois.

[31:11](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=1871) This is an opportunity to make Chicago and the residents of Chicago whole, right, because it's not a burden on property tax payers. And furthermore, we're talking about thousands of jobs that families on the west side, the south side of Chicago, southeast, northwest, throughout the city could benefit from. That is really the goal here, to create an economic opportunity along the lakefront that allows for that campus to be fully realized. Thank you.

[31:42](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=1902) Hey, Mayor. Hey. Earlier this morning, the governor had this to say, asked about the Bear Stadium. You may recall that the mayor of Chicago held a big press conference with the Bears announcing a $2.5 billion stadium that he had no money to pay for, so somehow that was going to have to get paid for, and that's not something I was willing to do. What's your response to the governor there? Could you hold your mic down to echo? Yeah, do you want me to say that again? Hold it down some, yeah. Cool. Want me to repeat that? Yes, that's a better sound. You may recall that the mayor of Chicago held a big press conference with the Bears announcing a $2.5 billion stadium that he had no money to pay for,

[32:15](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=1935) so somehow that was going to have to get paid for, and that's not something I was willing to do. That's what the governor said. What do you think about that? Well, again, the two point five to two point two billion dollars, I believe, is what the Bears had committed to paying for this stadium, that the cost for the remaining portion of the stadium is through ISFA. Again, that's the Illinois Sports Facilities Authority. It's a 2% tax on hotels that can only drive stadium development, right?

[32:49](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=1969) So taxpayers would not be responsible for the construction of the stadium, right? Because, again, the Bears were going to put forth 72% of the cost, and the other cost would be through an existing mechanism, which is ISFA. Interesting enough, that's the exact design that the Senate created, that municipalities would be able to create their own sports authority, right? But what it did not do was provide indication of how that particular local sports authority would be able to generate revenue.

[33:27](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=2007) We already have one that exists. In fact, what was proposed by the Senate was essentially a 30 to 40 year ramp in terms of financing, of which we could already do that to take care of what the existing stadium is owed while also ensuring that the Bears would be able to build their stadium. And keep in mind, ISFA is also available to help support. I know that the Chicago Stars are looking for a home.

[33:59](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=2039) They're going to want to build a stadium in Chicago. And why wouldn't they, right? As women's sports begins to continue to grow, I think it's important around equity and parity that we provide support for all of our sports franchises. That's what this particular mechanism is designed to do. It was created nearly 40 years ago for that. So there's clearly a structure that would allow for the stadium to be constructed. Now, as far as infrastructure, there was a commitment, from what I understand, at least what Arlington Heights was asking for, was $850 million for infrastructure.

[34:36](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=2076) Which, personally, I believe that that number was woefully underappreciated, quite frankly. But it was still higher than what the museum campus needed. And the museum campus is the top tourist destination for the entire state of Illinois. So all of the investments that would have been made, particularly through infrastructure, the return on that investment, we're talking $8.1 billion in income tax that we would be able to generate as a result of the 24,000 jobs, I believe, for Chicago,

[35:07](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=2107) 43,000 jobs roughly for the entire region. There is no economic perspective that has ever been delivered for the Bears or a campus for infrastructure other than what we have proposed. You know, what is your message to the Bears? They've seen government in Illinois and in Chicago not yet create a deal and really struggle to over the last couple of years that they can agree to. So what's your message to them? Well, look, I still believe that it's going to take all of us to get something of this magnitude done.

[35:38](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=2138) And look, I'll be the first to admit, I was the only person in the race at the time that made a commitment to working with the Bears. And I'm still committed to working with the Bears. I'm also still committed to working with Springfield, right? You just saw what we were able to accomplish. Though there's still more work to be done, we're moving in a better, cohesive direction around what it's going to take to support working people. I would have much preferred to have the conversation around the General Assembly and this session to be dominated by raising revenue.

[36:13](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=2173) What we did see, though, was roughly $800 million, I believe, raised in revenue by taxing corporations. So you can see the progress, right? And though it has been slow, I have long been a proponent of challenging these big corporations to pay their fair share in taxes. The point being, you've seen how we came together to push the agenda forward around progressive revenue, though there's more work to be done. You've seen how we have come together to build a one-system shelter system in Chicago.

[36:46](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=2206) We've come together around the southeast side development there. So there are clear examples of our ability to work together. And so my message is straightforward and clear. Let's all come together to make sure that the economic engine of the state of Illinois, and quite frankly the entire region, has all the tools that it needs to ensure that whether it's the Bears or any other larger development, that the west side, the south side, and all sides of Chicago can benefit from these developments.

[37:18](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=2238) Thank you. Hi, Mayor. Hi. The Bears could announce tomorrow that they're going to Hammond, Indiana, and if they do, whose fault would that be? Do you bear some share of blame if that's what the bears decide to do? Well, look, I'm not someone who points the finger at the individuals. I don't believe that's productive. You know, again, I can't predict what the bears will do. What I'm simply saying is there's no plan for Hammond, right?

[37:48](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=2268) We have not even done an environmental study there, as far as I know. There's no plan for Arlington Heights. There's only one plan that's on the table. What I'm simply saying is if the General Assembly at least understood that they had to move on a framework that literally mimics the framework that I've already put forward, then let's come together and figure out where there may be some disconnect or perhaps greater understanding. But again, at this point, to point the finger at any one entity, again, I wouldn't find that to be a good use of my energy.

[38:20](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=2300) And I would find it to be counterintuitive to what we're trying to build here. And that's a cohesive approach to build the safest, most affordable big city in America. How much money do you think the city can raise from the digital ad tax that the city council now has the authority to impose? Yeah, that's a great question. I mean, it really depends on, you know, which... Big corporate conglomerates, we consider taxing at what rate. When I was a Cook County commissioner, we explored and looked at what it could mean for the entire state.

[38:56](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=2336) And, you know, we've seen some conservative numbers range from it depends, again, on what size of the corporation and at what rate. But I will say that I'm obviously going to work with members of city council and community partners as a whole to come up with what is fair. The fact that, again, that the state of Illinois followed our lead around the social media amusement responsibility tax, we've called repeatedly to protect the local government distributive fund, we've called for digital ad tax.

[39:27](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=2367) The fact that we are finally here, that's obviously a step in the right direction. The budget doesn't include the authority for the city council to tax payrolls of big companies or to impose a per-delivery tax on non-grocery or medicine delivery. How disappointed are you that those, you know, requests were not in the budget, and how much more difficult does that make the city's budget? Well, look, I mean, I would, you know,

[39:58](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=2398) I would be remiss if I did not, you know, acknowledge the hard work that has gone into moving us in a stronger direction to generate revenue and not off the backs of working people. You know, as far as frustration is concerned, I mean, I think there's probably shared frustration around all of the work that we've done because there's a real urgent season that we're in where people are struggling every day to make ends meet. And so ways in which we can alleviate the tension on people's pocketbook, especially at a time in which Trump's administration has brought us a recession, inflation, and endless wars.

[40:39](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=2439) And so it's going to be incumbent upon all of us to work together to find, again, revenue and to have a pathway once that revenue has been created to ensure that we're maximizing the benefits so that we can support working people. Good afternoon, Mayor. Good afternoon. Good afternoon. So I saw you on – can you hear me now? Yeah, that's better, yeah. You were on with Al Sharpton last night talking about your recent trip to Italy. Yeah. And you said that Pope Leo asked you how Chicago was standing up to Trump's terror.

[41:10](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=2470) Did he really ask you that? Yeah, he asked specifically how Chicago was doing. He was incredibly concerned about midway blitz. He brought it up specifically. We we got into the conversation around, you know, how whether it was to executive orders that I signed to protect Chicago. He was very curious about those executive orders. I talked about our rapid response teams, particularly how community has shown up to help families get from their homes to schools. We talked about the fact that local businesses, whether it's Little Village or Pilsen or Chinatown, have been impacted by Trump's terror and his tyranny.

[41:48](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=2508) Some of these businesses, we're talking about a loss of 70 percent of revenue. I mean, look, there's no secret of how much damage the Trump administration has caused throughout the entire globe. And we felt that same energy in Italy when I talked to the mayor of Rome, where this attack on people who are, quote, other, end quote, is a problem. And when he asked about Chicago, he was very concerned and clear about how Chicago and other cities have been impacted by Trump's terror and his tyranny.

[42:27](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=2547) Okay, one more question about community violence interrupters. We all know what happened with the mob actions, teen takeovers at Hyde Park. How would you rate their performance, and what did they do wrong? Well, I mean, look, our goal is to keep people safe, right? And any act of violence, one act of violence, is one too many, right? I mean, I'll constantly be the first to speak directly to the idea that we have to do more, right? That work doesn't stop because we had zero homicides during the Memorial Day weekend.

[43:02](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=2582) But the fact of the matter is we did lose a life to gun violence. A two-year-old got their hands on a weapon and shot themselves, right? I mean, shot themselves. So we're not patting ourselves on the back. In terms of how we do our work, the vast majority of these trends and gatherings, we intercept and prevent. The challenge, of course, is it only takes one. And the number of arrests that we've made, the work that we are doing to redirect people to safer interactions, right?

[43:39](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=2619) The application process just closed for jobs. We have opened up park spaces to give young people alternative destinations. And I'm going to continue to make this plea with the people of Chicago that parents and adults, we all have to come together. CVI, business, the faith community, government, we all have to come together to make sure that we're keeping people safe. Thank you. Hi, Mayor. Hey. On that 2024. How was your trip? I got back safely and smoothly.

[44:11](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=2651) Italy's beautiful, but it's now Chicago City Hall, you know, of course. That's what I'm talking about. Good answer. Have you gotten any indication from your allies in Springfield on what needs to change about the 2024 proposal in order to make that viable at the state level? And what changes are you willing to make? Well, look, I said I'm open to those conversations. And, you know, we have never had literally a more substantive conversation around this. But we did talk about our framework. Look, they didn't just pull that framework out of thin air.

[44:43](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=2683) Right. they receive that framework from our proposal so there is clear indication that they recognize what we have been saying for two years public benefit public use infrastructure as well as isfa and so the fact that they created a framework that is literally designed around our initial proposal i'm just going to draw this conclusion that they at least respect my proposal um you said your team last spoke to the bears a month and a half ago are there any plans to meet with Bears leadership on the books going forward? And should there be a special session to take up a

[45:17](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=2717) Bears bill? Well, I mean, look, if there's a special session, we should be talking about how we can protect taxpayers and working people, right? But again, that's, you know, that's not my jurisdiction. That's not my call to make. That's something that can only come from the governor as well as the legislature. You know, as far as the other part of your question, if I I think if I can recall it, to meet with the Bears. Look, as I said, I'm prepared and willing to meet with all the stakeholders, the Bears certainly,

[45:48](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=2748) and the governor, the governor's office, as well as the legislature. I believe it's going to be imperative that even all of the museum campus leaders, those presidents and CEOs, all of us, I believe, have to come together because something of this magnitude, it's going to require all of us, right? I mean, the lift on this assignment, we can't do this by ourselves, right? And so I'm going to just remain consistent and steady that public benefit and public use infrastructure for the top tourist destination for the entire state of Illinois.

[46:22](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=2782) And then, of course, we have a funding mechanism that already exists that could generate the resources not just for the Bears but for other sports teams who also are looking at building sports and entertainment centers that can generate revenue. Hi. Good afternoon, Mayor. I'm sorry you have to peek around Jake's head. That's okay. I'm behind the tallest person here. So, you know, this conversation has been going on for a while now.

[46:52](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=2812) Which one? The one about the Bears. And so, you know, six weeks, is that the longest gap that you have seen, the longest amount of radio silence from the Bears' conversation? Well, I mean, look, I mean, what we did hear from the Bears is that the megaprojects bill, no one liked it. No one. The Bears did not support it. The governor didn't support it. Clearly, the Senate did not support it. So we are at least clear that the mega projects bill just was a nonstarter.

[47:27](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=2847) What we did see as a sign is that, again, the framework that the Senate put together is literally the framework that we presented two years ago. So, look, I'm just going to remain steady and open to conversations because this is something that I believe that we can do well and we can do it right. But most importantly, we can do it together. What's their sticking point? Which who's sticking point? So I'm glad you asked that.

[47:58](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=2878) I think I know why you're asking that because we never heard their sticking point. So I believe it's a great question to ask. I just know that what the Bears preferred two years ago was literally the framework that the Senate drafted. Again, the biggest difference, however, it's still not clear on how revenue would be generated within a local municipality's sports authority, right? And how do you do that and protect taxpayers? That's why I have the only value.

[48:29](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=2909) plan that protects property taxpayers. And, you know, I'm going to just, again, remain consistent and steady that the Chicago Bears belong in Chicago, and clearly there's no plan anywhere else. And I'm going to just, again, you know, call upon all the stakeholders to figure out how we can all come together to solve this. Because, look, this is good practice for us. We're going to need to continue to solve problems for working people, not just today, but in the coming months and years.

[49:00](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=2940) We have not even experienced the full impact of Trump's tariffs and his illegal tariffs and the cuts that he has made to Medicaid and education and housing. These are real severe times for working people, and that's why I'm working overtime to build the safest, most affordable big city in America. Hi, Mayor. I'm going to give you a break from the bears and take you back to immigration, if it's okay. All right. Elio Montenegro, I'm with WVON Radio and WRLL. Last Friday, officials, agents from Hennepin County up in Minnesota went to Texas and arrested an ICE agent.

[49:39](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=2979) They charged him with several felonies and misdemeanors. Is your office working with the state's attorney's office here to put together investigations, ultimately charges against agents who have crossed the line and violated the law here in Chicago and in Illinois? Well, first of all, we've seen how agents have crossed the line and have been incredibly disruptive and deadly, right?

[50:10](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=3010) There are clear examples there. That's why I put forth the initial executive order to ensure that our police department captures and maintains any evidence that could be used to prosecute these federal agents. There's a coalition of district attorneys and state's attorneys around the country who are committed to bringing justice on behalf of the people of our country. And so this is a clear example that it's possible. And, of course, I'm going to continue to work with all of our law enforcement partners to ensure that we hold these rogue agents accountable.

[50:51](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=3051) If you break down and violate trust between law enforcement and community, it erodes the progress that we are making. And that's why it's incredibly disappointing, quite frankly, that the President of the United States of America has withdrawn resources from community violence intervention and prevention. He has withdrawn resources from ATF, right? And so I just believe that there is a pathway and a clear direction to hold these rogue agents accountable,

[51:21](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0?t=3081) and I will continue to work with the state's attorney and all law enforcement to ensure that accountability becomes the prevailing form of governance. All right. Thank you all very much. Thank you.

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Source: https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/jY_gm2Vvdu0 · Chicago Politics, an independent tracker of the Chicago City Council. Guide for agents: https://www.chicagopolitics.org/llms.txt