Chicago Mayor, Facing $1.15B Deficit, to Unveil New Budget

Budget & Fiscal Policy - The report focuses on the mayor's proposed budget, specifically examining the mix of spending cuts and tax increases [1][2] - The analysis questions whether the mayor will consider budget cuts, given his historical reluctance to do so [2] - The report highlights the mayor's focus on increasing taxes for corporations and high-income earners [3] - The report emphasizes the need to address a $1.5 billion deficit for 2026 [5] Debt & Municipal Bonds - The city's potential reliance on debt to cover budget shortfalls is a key concern [4] - The city is active in the municipal bond market, primarily for infrastructure projects [4] - Airport financing is separate from the city's general budget [5] Credit Ratings & Pension Liabilities - Rating agencies view Chicago's pension liabilities as a significant pressure point [7] - The city's pension costs have increased due to recent legislation [8] - The administration needs to address the ongoing structural deficit to avoid potential ratings downgrades [8]