UPDATE: Mayor Brandon Johnson is gearing up for a renewed push to pass his “Bring Chicago Home” referendum, aiming to combat the city’s escalating affordability crisis. This announcement comes from Cristina Pacione-Zayas, Johnson’s chief of staff, who revealed the mayor’s strategy during a statement earlier today.
Officials are confident that a second attempt could yield better results, citing that ballot measures in places like California often fail initially but succeed upon revisiting. “Research shows that referendums typically don’t pass the first time,” Pacione-Zayas stated. She emphasized the importance of building an educational foundation for voters to secure future success.
The original referendum, which proposed raising the transaction tax on properties over $1 million to generate $100 million annually for homelessness support, was rejected by 54% of voters in March 2024. The defeat came despite a significant campaigning effort, including a $2 million opposition campaign funded by business and real estate interests.
Following that loss, Johnson expressed optimism, stating, “There are a lot more yeses still out there.” He stressed the need for continued outreach to neighborhoods heavily affected by the housing crisis. Pacione-Zayas echoed this sentiment, pointing out that misinformation campaigns had misled voters into thinking the referendum would raise property taxes.
The recent political climate in Chicago has added urgency to Johnson’s efforts. Following a difficult budget season, where a coalition of conservative and moderate alderpersons rejected his corporate head tax, Johnson’s relationship with the City Council has become strained. Pacione-Zayas argued that these tensions highlight the need for collaborative governance.
As Chicago grapples with homelessness and affordability challenges, the urgency for a dedicated revenue stream has never been clearer. “The big finding in the way we address homelessness is ensuring affordable housing and providing support,” Pacione-Zayas said.
The mayor’s office plans to employ targeted strategies to educate voters and counteract disinformation. “It’s crucial for people to fully understand these measures,” she noted, citing previous successful campaigns in other states as models to emulate.
Moving forward, the Johnson administration aims to engage all stakeholders in addressing the city’s pressing issues. “The onus is on all parties to work collaboratively for the people of Chicago,” Pacione-Zayas stated firmly.
As the city prepares for another round in this critical battle, residents will be watching closely. The outcome of this referendum could significantly impact the future of homelessness initiatives in Chicago, making it a pivotal moment for both the mayor and the community.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story as Johnson’s team lays the groundwork for the upcoming campaign.
