All Week Long
Originally Published on Chicago Tribune by A.D. Quig | Nov 21, 2024
President Toni Preckwinkle’s 2025 budget soared through the Cook County Board Thursday with only minor tweaks that boost grant funding for abortion organizations, set aside $15 million for a future property tax relief fund, and kickstart the contentious process to shift arrestees on electronic monitoring from the sheriff to the chief judge.
Commissioners swiftly approved technical amendments to the budget and took their final 17-0 vote in the span of about an hour. The roughly $9.94 billion “good news” budget closed an initial $218 million shortfall without raising any taxes or fees. It eliminated 56 vacant positions, refilled an emergency response fund, and dedicated nearly $30 million to climate resiliency and clean energy.
Shortly after its unanimous passage, Preckwinkle ran a short victory lap, saying the county has weathered the pandemic, “numerous economic risks” and “persistent budgeting challenges,” but seen its bond rating upgraded, implemented a plan to fully fund its pensions and built up reserves. “We’re doing more than ever without asking more from our taxpayers,” she said.
Today, Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, along with federal, state and local officials, celebrated the groundbreaking for a major roadway and bridge improvement project at I-294 on 88th/Cork Avenue in the Village of Justice.
This significant regional improvement will address an interstate bottleneck by installing a new interchange with I-294 and enhancing access to local roads. A new northbound exit and the final portion of the southbound entrance ramp will be constructed at 88th/Cork Avenue, intersections at 79th Street/88th Avenue and Archer Road (IL 171)/Oak Grove Avenue will be improved, new pedestrian and bicycle facilities will be built, and lighting and drainage systems will be modernized.
“This project was truly a team effort, combining the resources of local, state and federal governments to ensure its success,” said President Preckwinkle. “Motorists will be able to travel more efficiently through this area and businesses will benefit from enhanced economic opportunities.”
Paid for by Preckwinkle for President. A copy of our report filed with the State Board of Elections is (or will be) available on the Board's official website, http://elections.il.gov/, or for purchase from the State Board of Elections, Springfield, Illinois. All contributions are reported to the State Board of Elections. Contributions are not accepted from employees of Cook County. Companies holding contracts with the Cook County are limited to $750.
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