# Update From City Hall 9.23.26

- Date: September 23, 2026
- Type: Video
- Length: 43:55
- Topic: Update From City Hall
- Video: [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=takkFOe0Bnk)
- Transcript: Machine transcription, 6,640 words ([text](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/files/transcripts/youtube/takkFOe0Bnk.txt))
- Mayor: [Brandon Johnson](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor)

## Legislation

- [R2026-0023372: Call on Mayor Brandon Johnson and his administration to implement Year 2026 budget package](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/matter/R2026-0023372-call-mayor-brandon-johnson-his-administration)

## Description

Mayor Johnson hosts a media availability.

## Transcript

[0:10](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=10) Good afternoon, everyone. Thank you for joining us today and for your patience. Today during City Council, we introduced multiple initiatives that continue our focus on public-private partnership and responsible development in Chicago. But first, I want to recognize Mary Richardson-Laurie for her extraordinary public service and the guidance that she has provided me as our corporate counsel. Mary made history as the first black woman to serve in this role, leading our Department of Law, through an incredibly consequential time for our city and our entire nation.

[0:44](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=44) She and her team stood up for Chicago against the Trump administration, fought to hold powerful corporate actors accountable, and secured more than $90 million through affirmative litigation, while also helping put our city on a better path when it came to the parking meter deal, one of the worst deals ever made in municipal finance. I also want to thank Mary for coming out of retirement to lead our Department of Law through such a transformational time in Chicago's history.

[1:16](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=76) I'm grateful she believed in my administration and our mission and for everything that she did to move our city forward. I'm also thrilled that her legacy will be carried forward by another brilliant attorney and trailblazing black woman, Renee Hatcher. Renee has spent her career advancing equity, expanding opportunities, and fighting for communities that have too often been left behind. Her work with UIC Law, small businesses, community organizations, and our community wealth-building efforts reflect the same commitment that we are continuing to make for all of Chicago.

[1:54](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=114) Renee and I share a deep commitment to making our city's economy work for everyone and fighting for all of Chicago. I'm grateful to see this torch pass from one extraordinary leader to another, and I know that Renee will carry forward the work, the values, and the spirit of service that Mary has brought to this administration and to our city. Which brings me to the many people-focused initiatives introduced to and approved by the city council today. And I do apologize, our commissioner, for the Department of Environment,

[2:29](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=149) Commissioner Angela Tovar is joining me this afternoon. Thank you, Commissioner. As my administration continues to fight for working people and make sure growth works for all Chicagoans, today's introduction of a data center moratorium is another important step to do just that. Just this week in New York, I joined mayors from around the country and around the world in supporting the C40 Global Urban Data Centers Pact, which calls for responsible data center growth that protects communities and our natural resources.

[2:59](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=179) Chicago is extremely proud to be a part of that effort. And here at home, we are continuing to put those principles into action. I do want to thank our Chairwoman, Chairwoman Haddon, Alderwoman Mana Hoppenworth, and Alder Lamont Robinson for recognizing the importance of this work and partnering with my administration on this ordinance. The proposed 12-month moratorium would pause new data center development and the expansion of existing facilities. This gives our data center's task force the time to build on the work of the Sustainable Data Center's working group

[3:35](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=215) and the executive order that I signed recently and develop a strong, comprehensive framework for responsible development. That means making sure that we have the right safeguards in place for clean air, clean water, energy use, community health, and the quality of life in our neighborhoods. As I've often said, Chicago is open for business, but we just are not for sale. We welcome innovation. We welcome investment. We welcome the jobs and opportunities that come with a growing economy.

[4:07](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=247) But growth has to be responsible, and it has to work for the people who call Chicago home. Chicago has long been a leader in environmental justice, from Hazel Johnson and the movement she built on the South Side to the work that we are doing today. My administration has recommitted to that legacy by reestablishing the Department of Environment and putting climate resilience and environmental protection back at the center of city government. And Chicago is proving that this work matters.

[4:37](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=277) A recent Alpha Geo analysis named Chicago the most climate resilient major city among the 72 cities that it studied. While we are hoping to bring this moratorium before a joint committee of zoning and environment, For robust conversation and further consideration, unfortunately, a corporate-aligned member sent the ordinance to the Rules Committee. Chicagoans are certainly sick and tired of political tricks, these tricks that inhibit progress and leave our communities vulnerable

[5:08](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=308) and potentially continue to be environmentally harmed. But we are not giving up. I remain committed to instituting this moratorium so that we can set strong standards to protect our communities and our environment. In the meantime, however, we are charging ahead with continued investments in affordable housing and neighborhood development. that are transforming the south and west sides while, of course, activating parts of our city that have sat desolate for generations. As part of our Missing Middle initiative, we introduced measures that will support the construction of eight new homes

[5:44](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=344) across four neighborhood-scale apartment buildings in West Garfield Park. We also introduced measures to fund a youth center in Riverdale, a nonprofit commercial laundry, and improvements at five Chicago public schools. Additionally, we approved $200 million to support the Foundry Park mixed-use development, which will include over 700 affordable homes and a $50 million loan to support an office-to-hotel conversion in the loop. My administration is committed to community-centric growth that creates opportunity while putting the needs of Chicagoans first.

[6:19](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=379) We can grow this city without losing sight of the people that call this beloved city home. and that is what responsible investment looks like and that is certainly the work that we will continue to do together I'm proud of the city that we continue to build and the one that we're building together and thank you all and I'm happy to answer any of your questions Hi, wonderful, thank you

[6:53](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=413) Yeah, well we are doing that that's one of the reasons why the executive order was so critical to make sure that those stronger regulations and best practices can be established. Look, this is a newer development, and it's moving with expediency, and the moratorium will give all of us the time that's necessary

[7:28](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=448) to make sure that best practices can be established. One of the reasons why I led the effort on the moratorium is to do just what you articulated, creating a pathway for stronger guardrails, so much so that on the quantum campus, the developers have made a commitment not to include a data center. So we're already seeing the dividends of this investment and calling for a moratorium so that the time that's precious and needed to ensure that we're protecting working people

[8:02](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=482) in our environment, that we use that time to put in the best possible practices. And can you also, on a different subject, can you tell us exactly what is going on with the 911 Center? There's been a lot of confusion over whether this new system is actually online or not, or if it's not online, or if they're 100% still using the backup system. It is online, and the backup system does exist. What I can tell you is that we've had an antiquated system that is far behind in terms of government's ability to improve response time.

[8:42](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=522) That's the expectation here. And, you know, I understand the concerns that people have. But, again, this initiation began six years ago. And so, you know, the time that was spent in getting this operation in full effect has been to address some of the concerns that have already been addressed and the concerns that have been articulated in that letter. But there is a backup, right, as this new system works to improve response time for our first responders.

[9:18](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=558) The goal, of course, is to save lives and to put our first responders in the best possible position to be able to intervene in the event of an emergency. Mr. Mayor, can you give us some more context and details on Renee Hatcher? What was the selection process like? What went into it and what really set her apart when it came to choosing this important position? Yeah, she's a brilliant woman, and one of the things that I'm incredibly proud of is how my administration has been able to identify highly talented and gifted black women in particular.

[9:52](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=592) And the process has always been centered around competency, the ability to collaborate. compassionate, and, you know, here's someone that is a sharp, brilliant mind and a deep, profound background in civil rights, but also the understanding how law can help improve the quality of life for everyday people, especially economic justice and housing justice. At a time in which, of course, our government is under constant assault,

[10:24](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=624) the city of Chicago is under constant assault by the federal government, it's going to be critical to have someone who understands the importance of affirmative litigation. We have been hyper-focused on making sure that we're being proactive, but also executive authority. I mean, someone who understands how the executive role that I possess at this moment can better serve everyday people, especially at a time in which executive overreach continues to happen. And so just like we were able to I was able to identify Mary Richardson Laurie in that same vein, I was able to identify an incredibly gifted young black woman who will help move the department forward.

[11:06](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=666) You mentioned black women. There was a protest outside of City Hall this morning with a group that's supporting former staffers, former people that have worked in your office, claiming that they were mistreated under CPZ, your chief of staff, specifically mistreatment toward black women is the allegations. How do you respond to that? Are you aware of any mistreatment? They're calling for a resignation. So what are your thoughts on that? Well, listen, I'm very proud of the record that I have, having had several black women in key positions and remain in key positions, and not just working for my administration.

[11:49](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=709) I put forth the leadership of city council, the first black woman to ever hold the title as chair of the finance committee. Our administration is overwhelmingly made up of women. And, you know, so, you know, I'm grateful that we have incredibly talented women, black women in particular, who have helped usher in a new era of governance. One of the reasons why we are on pace to build the safest, most affordable big city in America is because we have key women that I place in position of authority to be able to execute that.

[12:29](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=749) But Commissioner Boatwright is a good example of that, as my economic development bond has clearly benefited all sides of the city of Chicago. Mary Richardson-Larry, again, another good example of a black woman in a key leadership position. Kenya Merritt, who went from a deputy mayor to a commissioner. Angela Green, who is running our Department of Family and Support Services of which, you know, we have broken records as it relates to the services that we're providing

[13:03](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=783) but particularly to young people, hiring over 33,000 young people for summer jobs so you can see examples of how my administration has not just relied upon the leadership of black women but how they have been able to effectively execute my vision Good afternoon, Mayor you were giving the outgoing corporation council her laurels for the negotiations of the parking meter deal what do you think about the final terms of that renegotiated deal and are you encouraging the city council to vote for that tomorrow and friday well you know again i want

[13:35](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=815) to thank mary richardson laurie for her leadership my finance department as well that played a part in helping the city council find a better pathway because clearly this was the worst deal in the history of municipal government perhaps at any level of government right and making sure that city council had all of the tools that they needed directing them towards the stakeholders so that they could come to some reasonable conclusion now there were those who didn't think a better deal

[14:06](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=846) was even possible i fully expect that city council will continue to go through its proper deliberation to be able to walk away with an ordinance and an agreement that is better than what i inherited Now, there were two other administrations that attempted to find a better pathway. Again, my Department of Law, my Department of Finance, working with the members of city council. This was a collective effort. There's not one individual or one entity that can take credit when government goes well, right?

[14:39](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=879) And so, you know, that's something that they'll continue to deliberate, and the goal and the expectation is to walk away with a better deal than what was. And on data centers, Alderman Conway has an ordinance that would put data centers through the plan development approval process because he worries that your moratorium would end up in court and delay. reigning in data centers while regulations are underway. What do you think about that concern? Is that valid? And why do you still, why do you think that the moratorium is better?

[15:12](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=912) Well, first of all, look, much like the ordinance that I put forward to protect renters, it's clear that when you have bold progressive leadership, it provocates other people to get involved. And I'm grateful that Alderman Conway has elevated his participation. It's important. That's what progressive leadership should do, should drive the conversation forward. Now, what I don't think is appropriate, though, is to create more bureaucracy, right?

[15:43](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=943) I have the cut-the-tape initiative to make sure that development is happening faster, right, because the government cannot get in its own way, and development cannot happen at the expense of working people. And it certainly cannot happen at the expense of our own environmental health. So, again, I'm encouraged that what I have put forward, much like PRO, has activated other people to take seriously what I've always said that we have to do.

[16:14](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=974) As we work to build the safest, most affordable big city in America, we have to center our work around working people. And that's what my expectation has always been. So I'm grateful for his participation in others, and I still believe that the moratorium is the most just, equitable way to move forward. Good afternoon, Mayor. Speaking of pro and fair, both proposals appear to be headed to a joint committee. Do you think that there are pieces of the proposal called fair that will wind up in an ordinance that you can support?

[16:50](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=1010) I'm not entirely sure what in that particular proposal can ultimately solve what we're trying to solve, right? Because when it comes to junk fees, when it comes to a registry, when it comes to right to counsel, Also, these are important provisions within PRO that strengthen the protection for renters and landlords, right?

[17:21](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=1041) So, look, the conversation will be ongoing. It's clear, though, that with PRO, this was a coalition of providers and renters that came together to bring forth an ordinance that could update the renter's ordinance that has not been touched in 40 years. Unfortunately, with the other proposal, that type of coalition and collaboration was not afforded.

[17:53](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=1073) The expectation, however, moving forward is that all of us come together to deliver an ordinance that protects renters, that places landlords in a stronger position to understand what their roles have to be, but also to make sure that we're not putting unnecessary burden on city departments like the buildings department, which the other ordinance does. And, you know, our commissioner has already expressed that this would create not just a log jam, but we don't have the personnel to be able to carry out, you know, the activities that a bureau and other measures in pro would be able to do.

[18:35](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=1115) Of course, I'm going to remain hopeful. But, again, this conversation has been brought to us by a broad coalition that understands the power of working people. And much like data senders, just like the renter's ordinance, others who have sat in their seats for some time not addressing these matters have now been awakened by bold, progressive leadership. That's a good thing for government. And Alderman gave final approval to two more settlements involving actions tied to Reynaldo Guevara.

[19:10](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=1150) I know your administration, or I believe your administration, is finalizing a global settlement on some of those cases. I'm wondering if you have any information that you're in a position to share with us tonight. Listen, I mean, we know that the, you know, the painful past of our city is one that we are still working to repair, right? And, you know, the global settlement infrastructure was brought to us by, you know, a very direct conversation that I had with Mary Richardson Laurie about how can we bring closure to these cases in a way that identifies the pain to the best of government's ability, while also.

[20:00](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=1200) finding ways in which we can safeguard taxpayers so you know at this point you know i'm going to continue to work with our department of law the incoming corporate council to find you know sure pathways to settle these cases and do it in a way where we can you know mitigate further harm on taxpayers good evening mayor good evening uh the people's unity platform came out today in support

[20:30](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=1230) of a head tax for companies over 500 people. Do you think that would be the right starting point to have it apply for much larger companies this time? Look, here's what I believe. I believe that the right position is to support progressive revenue. And it's clear that progressive revenue places the city in a stronger position to be able to improve the quality of life for everyday people. There are multiple ideas of how progressive revenue should be instituted. And that's where my

[21:04](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=1264) focus is going to be. There's no secret here that I believe that big corporations and the ultra-rich have to put more skin in the game. I mean, that's the bottom line. And at a time in which they are benefiting economically from not just the Trump administration, with the largest this upward transfer of wealth into the hands of these big corporations, but they're also benefiting from the growth of our economy. Our hotel occupancy rates at 90%. People are visiting our city. Economic development is being spurred all over the city of Chicago.

[21:37](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=1297) Foundry Park is just yet another example. A few thousand housing units, 700 of them will be affordable. And so as economic development continues to happen, it's only right that the ultra-rich and these big corporations put more skin in the game. We just saw the state of Illinois take an idea that I started here in Chicago, the tax on the big tech companies, the social media conglomerates, and now that particular revenue stream is performing better than what our initial projections were,

[22:12](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=1332) and those dollars are going to go directly to mental and behavioral health care. So it's twofold here. It's challenging those with means to put more skin in the game and then making sure that the taxpayers know exactly where those dollars are going to go. And so as we line up more progressive revenue, we're going to build more affordable homes. As we line up more progressive revenue, we're going to improve our infrastructure. As we line up more progressive revenue, we're going to hire more people. We're going to make sure that city services are being delivered,

[22:43](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=1363) whether it's trimming a tree, filling potholes, or redoing the underground operations so that we can mitigate flooding. All of these services the people of Chicago are depending on, and balancing budgets off the backs of working people has proven over and over and over again that it is a failed, tired strategy, and it's one that, of course, I wholeheartedly reject. Thank you. I also wanted to ask, you began this term with more traditional City Hall veterans, including some from the daily era, on your senior leadership in cabinet compared to right now.

[23:16](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=1396) Is this an intentional shift on your part to, you know, go back to your organizing roots as you evolve in this role? And is this a sign of what's to come for a potential second term? Well, I mean, first of all, I have never abandoned my organizing roots, right? Don't let the haircut and the suits fool you, Alice, right? I mean, we've organized to build the safest, most affordable big city in America, right? You don't pass paid time off without having organizing jobs. You don't settle multiple contracts without having organizing jobs.

[23:47](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=1427) You don't reopen mental health clinics without having organizing jobs. All of this is still the result of a firm belief that it's going to take all of us to continue on this journey to build the safest, most affordable big city in America. And the fact that we have the fewest amount of homicides in 60 years, that's not by happenstance. There's intentional work that I'm doing and leading to make this stuff happen, right? Because, listen, if it were just as simple of having someone from the daily era, then I would not have inherited the mess that I did inherit, right?

[24:22](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=1462) And so it requires a combination of all of it. Now, there are some very talented people who just happened to get their start under his administration, and I'm grateful for that. In terms of how the next term is going to look like, of course, I'm establishing a real clear signal to the world that our work is not done. And there's some highly talented people that work for me. Look, Angela Tovar was appointed by the last administration.

[24:53](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=1493) You've got to put some respect on Lori Lightfoot, too, right? So there are some talented folks that we've inherited from other administrations. administrations, but the real key is who's given the direction, right? Where you start and who you work with, certainly there's some benefit to that. But what we do and where we're going, there's only one person that offers up that vision, and that's me. Hey, Mayor. Hey. I want to follow up on Jeff's question. What specifically do you think works in FAIR, and what are you willing to compromise on?

[25:24](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=1524) Can you name room to meet in the middle? Look, I mean, we've already seen some of the things that I've adjusted. Right. So this is not about what I'm willing to do. It's about what the other folks are willing to do. I've already demonstrated that I'm prepared to be able to make adjustments so that we can protect renters. So, I mean, those conversations will continue to happen. But, you know, me working with other folks, despite sometimes how I'm characterized, you don't get the results that we're getting so far without having the ability to work with other people.

[25:55](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=1555) right um alderman viegas told me a couple minutes ago quote the balls in in your court in the mayor's court and he said that he has the votes to pass his ordinance would you veto his bill now as it is or is he right and if he's right why does he need to cave well first of all if the ball is in my court and he has the votes to pass it both those things can't be true the compromise ball i'm just saying which is it though if he's got the vote then it sounds like he doesn't need to

[26:25](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=1585) compromise. Well, I think what he's saying is that because he's in a position of power to pass his legislation that you should, you know, come to him and compromise and, you know, try to work out a deal. That's what he's saying. Oh, oh, okay. Do you disagree? I mean, what's your question? Do I, should I, do I agree with compromising? I think that what I've said is, of course, I agree that we should come to a compromise. Of course, I agree with that. And the veto component too. Yeah. Which is, sorry, I don't mean to ask. It's okay. Go ahead. I was asking also, So, like, he would be wrong in theory if you were willing to veto his legislation.

[26:58](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=1618) He wouldn't probably have enough votes. Well, I think that's too presumptive to project without having had a fuller conversation around where else can we meet. Look, I'm open. I'm available. The coalition is open and available as well. Here's something I think is important. The coalition brought this ordinance. He never met with them. And they've confirmed that. Here's a different question that can be asked.

[27:29](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=1649) Are alders who are promoting a different ordinance willing to sit down and meet with the coalition that put the ordinance together in the first place? I do appreciate the attention that I'm being given right now. I do. But this is about over half the people of this city that rent and are struggling every single day to afford their rent. where rent is rising without cause, essentially. And, you know, I think it's important that we keep our focus on working people

[28:04](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=1684) and less on the political players, because those who are ultimately impacted by the decisions that we're making, you know, I don't know if they're even interested in all of the weeds, right? But I do know that there is a broad coalition that would love to sit down with the group that has put forth an ordinance that doesn't reflect, essentially, the coalition's desires. So I hope that these alders will be willing to meet with voters and residents because that's who I'm focused on.

[28:38](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=1718) Just a quick follow-up. Are you negotiating against yourself on this ordinance? You've gutted two of the major provisions, right? that you've taken it out of the ordinance and the other side appears not to be coming your way. Are you frustrated that this isn't a give and take more so than you've taken away two things in your ordinance and it's still not ready to be approved? Well, I mean, look, this body constantly asks me, am I willing to collaborate?

[29:12](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=1752) Here's evidence that I am. I've done it multiple times Of course you want things to be absolutely The way in which the coalition designed it But keep in mind those individuals Who have been pushing for this type of ordinance For at least a decade now If not longer They've waited for a mayor That would be willing to prioritize

[29:42](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=1782) the interests of working people. So now they have one. Now we just need a city council that's willing to sit with the coalition and find a pathway to protect renters. What I can say though is there are some Still some legitimate concerns that the coalition has around what is clearly more of a corporate-aligned ordinance. You all have done the background on this. This ordinance wasn't written by the people. It was written by lobbyists, right?

[30:14](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=1814) And so, of course, the people of Chicago are frustrated that corporate lobbyists continue to get an outsized voice in decision-making. But the good news is, is that there are many people who understand the value of protecting renters. You know, 54% of the people of Chicago rent. And I'm going to continue to do my part to make sure that the values that I say that I'm always willing to negotiate the details around them, just not compromise them.

[30:45](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=1845) And this is a question for you, but if Commissioner Tovar wants to weigh in, too, because it impacts it. But, you know, you've had several ordinances now that have stalled, environmental-related ordinances, the gas ordinance, the Hazel Johnson ordinance, and they've stalled in the face of, I guess, business interests and unions being on the same side, right? And that appears to be the same on the moratorium. I've spoken with 150, you know, says it's not the right time for this,

[31:19](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=1879) that it's a lazy form of governance, that this should be instead a time to set up the regulations instead of just punting it for a year through the moratorium, you know, that there are regulations that are ready to be put in place, so why do a moratorium? Which regulations are they referring to, the ones that I established in my executive order? And they've put some stuff forward at the state level that I think that they would be supportive of. Oh, so they want me to run the state now, too? Yes. But no, I'm not going to do that. I'm going to leave that up to the folks.

[31:50](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=1910) I get your point, Angela. My broader question is, yeah, how do you overcome that? It's been a formidable opposition. Yeah, listen, there's opposition from corporations, right? There are opposition. There's opposition from corporations. There is, right? And there's no secret there. And there are times when, you know, some groups might be more aligned with corporations. It's not the first time. I mean, once upon a time, there were unions who supported privatization of schools and charter schools.

[32:20](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=1940) Thank God there's a better day in Chicago now. But the whole point of the executive order was to make sure this is not punting. That's actually doing the work because the regulatory practices had not been fully defined. This year is not just people sitting on their hands. This is actually doing the work. I think what you're hearing, what you're expressing is that people are more interested in lining their pockets than making sure that the lungs of working people are healthy.

[32:51](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=1971) They're more interested in lining their pockets than making sure that we have clean air and that our water usage is not exacerbating, you know, utilities. Commissioner, you want to add to that? Thank you for that question, Justin. Sure, and I would just add to that, Justin, you know, one thing that is critical here, I know that the mayor has said this, just how this administration has just advanced the most pro-worker policies. When I think about environmental justice and when I think about the suite of policies that we've advanced

[33:25](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=2005) or put forward at council, I think about the workers that we are trying to protect. Every diesel engine that's combusting, every fossil fuel that's combusting, you know, These are all protective measures that are put in place to protect the workers on the ground. And so when we're doing our policy development, we're connecting with people in community. We're hearing from workers. We're hearing from teachers. We're hearing from factory workers. These are who we're building our policies with, and these are the policies that we're moving forward. We pride ourselves on building policies that we do in coalition.

[33:59](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=2039) We've heard the mayor say that today about the Pro Renters Ordinance, and that's the same thing with our environmental policies. We're very proud of the coalitions that we've built, and we're very proud to put forward policies that reflect the values of this administration and the people in our neighborhoods. Thank you. Thank you, Commissioner. Thank you, Justin. Hello. Hi. As was mentioned, Alderman Conway thinks that a moratorium on data centers could pose a legal challenge or prompt a legal challenge. Has your team assessed that risk already? What's your analysis?

[34:31](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=2071) Well, I don't know what his analysis is and how he's coming to that conclusion. because it sounds very speculative. What you are reporting is that he said that it could. On what basis? Did he provide that? I guess that it would be discriminatory against a specific industry to place this type of moratorium. Yeah, I don't know. Commissioner, if you want to add to that. Has your team assessed that risk at all? We constantly assess how policy that we put forward. can withstand any legal challenge.

[35:02](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=2102) You want to? Sure. And I'll just add that one thing to note is that this is not a ban, correct? This is a temporary moratorium that we are advancing. This gives us the opportunity to take time to work together not only across departmentally, but across many coalitions with stakeholders across the city as well as city council to establish rules and regulations that make sense for Chicago. The Sustainable Data Centers Working Group report demonstrated that today the regulations that we have

[35:34](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=2134) are no longer adequate for what modern data centers present to our city in terms of environmental risks. And so because of that, we want to take a temporary pause to advance new policies. And so, yes, we have assessed that with our Department of Law, And we're comfortable and confident that we can put forth a temporary moratorium in order to reevaluate our regulations. Thank you. Thank you, Commissioner. Mayor, the supporters of FAIR, when they first introduced their ordinance as a rival to yours,

[36:06](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=2166) said that their biggest concern was just cause. That's been taken out. You've talked about this a little bit, but do you trust that FAIR supporters are acting in good faith when they say they want to compromise? Well, I hope so. I mean, I certainly do. And, you know, look, I think you all have done, you know, as a press corps, you know, a really strong, effective job in challenging government to be collaborative. It's something that you all ask me about on a regular basis. Here's an example of me doing what I've been doing, which is to come to a reasonable expectation that ultimately protects working people.

[36:44](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=2204) That's the goal here. That's what I hope that they would focus their attention on as well. And, you know, there is certainly time for us to be able to get it right. But I would hope that they would, you know, take the measures that the coalition has put together seriously and not just solely acquiesce to corporate interest. Hi, Mayor. Hi. Tomorrow morning, the Illinois Supreme Court is going to hear arguments in the case involving whether Chicago police officers facing termination should have to have those punishments decided in public by an arbitrator or in private.

[37:18](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=2238) Are you worried about the outcome of that case and what it could mean for public confidence in the Chicago Police Department? Well, first of all, I believe that, you know, it's important that the women and men who serve our city, you know, do it constitutionally. Constitutionally. Right. And as what was discussed earlier, the settlements that we've had to dole out have not just been a point and a source of pain for those who are impacted, but but for the taxpayers.

[37:54](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=2274) I believe it's always better when government is transparent. Look, I still believe that the overwhelming department understands its constitutional role. And there are women and men who show up every single day to protect this city, and they do it honorably. And for those individuals that either behave unconstitutionally or even worse, accountability is something that I believe makes our government stronger.

[38:27](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=2307) What we have seen, I believe what we've experienced in terms of the breakdown in confidence is because so much of that abusive behavior was concealed and people knew it was happening. And now we are in a stronger position with what we have put forth with the early warning operation that we have that if a commander is noticing behavior that is repeated, there's a greater call to attention. If you remember during the negotiations with this, with the last contract with CPD, there was a strong debate and even disagreement around whether or not certain disciplinary elements should be handled publicly and with a more independent voice.

[39:16](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=2356) I just believe that that's the maturation of our government, much like what I said about revenue streams, not just demanding that corporations and the ultra-rich put more skin in the game to tell the taxpayers where those dollars are going. The government that I inherited will not be the government that I pass on. This is not our grandparents' government anymore. And I believe that's a good thing. So I believe that the more transparent we can be, the more confidence I believe that people will have in government.

[39:50](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=2390) One of the measures that didn't get a vote today would increase the number of aldermen who would have to approve any initiative to add to the city's debt to make it. 30 aldermen as opposed to 26 alder people. That was blocked from a vote by Alderman Jason Irvin, a close ally of yours. Do you support that measure, or do you think it is a bad idea for the city, as Alderman Irvin does? Well, look, here's what I support. It's imperative that we have the apparatus that allows for us to continue to invest in infrastructure.

[40:27](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=2427) Since I've been in office, I've taken that particular role incredibly seriously. That's why I've put over a billion dollars into our supplemental payment for our pensions through refinancing, no cost to the taxpayers. We've been able to save the taxpayers over $70 million. dollars. There's a $600 million capital improvement and approved plan that already exists.

[40:59](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=2459) And the people of Chicago need us to move with expediency. You know, in terms of, you know, this particular measure, look, I believe that the more government gets in its way, working people and our progress, progress is slowed and working people do not receive the type of quality government that I am pushing for. So, look, I think these conversations will continue, but I've been absolutely clear about making sure that our bond issuance benefit people.

[41:36](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=2496) The $1.25 billion economic development bond, we've been able to use those dollars to unlock development across the city, building more affordable homes, making investments in our infrastructure. We just finished a project on the west side of Chicago to create better flood mitigation with these oversized tanks underground to be able to slow the drainage of water and push it back onto the streets so it's not flooding basements. People still want their trims, their tree trimmed, right? They want potholes filled. They want, you know, our bridges are crumbling.

[42:10](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=2530) In fact, some of our bridges are so bad, they don't meet the federal guidelines and standards of what a bridge should entail. So, look, we've had negligence over decades in this city. I'm working hard to advance these investments so that we can address matters that have been ignored for decades. You know, it's disheartening that there are people who have been in these positions for years and they hold on to status quo while working people are barely holding on to their apartments or their homes, can barely afford to feed their families.

[42:50](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=2570) And so anyhow, I think what's going to be imperative is that the people of Chicago will have to, I believe, engage that much stronger with city council because we're going to come across and coming up on a budget cycle right now where, you know, our demands and our expectations are going to be absolutely clear. And I'm going to fight for working people every day. That's why I was elected. And the work that we have done thus far has certainly led us to becoming the safest, most affordable big city in America.

[43:26](https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk?t=2606) So I appreciate you all's time and your energy today. Thank you all very much.

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Source: https://www.chicagopolitics.org/mayor/videos/takkFOe0Bnk · Chicago Politics, an independent tracker of the Chicago City Council. Guide for agents: https://www.chicagopolitics.org/llms.txt