-- Connecting the dots between our economy, government and business --
To bring working people back into the job market, State Senator Ram Villivalam (D-Chicago) is leading an initiative to offer businesses a tax credit to hire employees who lost their job due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Vacant, sometimes dilapidated properties that have been abandoned, or empty lots where the structures were cleared away have unpaid taxes attached to them, and according to Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas. It adds up to $5 billion in lost property tax revenue – more than a fifth of the current Cook County budget. “If you look at these numbers, they’re frightening.”
An investigation into Illinois’ largest-ever capital projects bill found nearly $4 billion in discretionary funds set aside for politicians’ pork projects, including $2 billion for Gov. J.B. Pritzker to spend as he saw fit – including on needs he saw driving around during his campaign.
There was also $144 million for constituents with close ties to former House Speaker Michael Madigan, according to the Better Government Association analysis.
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