SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (prairiebuzz.com) — Illinois lawmakers took a significant step forward this week in their effort to keep the Chicago Bears in-state, as House Bill 910 advanced through committee despite sparking heated debate over its fiscal implications.
The legislation, which aims to incentivize the Bears to remain in Illinois, would create a transparent framework for negotiations surrounding potential stadium development. Co-sponsor Rep. Kam Buckner (D-Chicago) emphasized that the bill establishes “a clean structure” to prevent unpredictable impacts on local tax bases and ensure negotiations occur in the open rather than behind closed doors.
“Instead of letting the Mega Project blow up a tax base in unpredictable ways or letting negotiations happen in the shadows, this bill creates a clean structure,” Buckner stated during the committee hearing.
The proposed bill includes provisions that would require “Mega Projects” to make substantial investments in the community, either investing $250 million and creating 50 permanent full-time jobs, or investing $100 million and creating 100 permanent full-time jobs.
Thursday’s hearing drew significant attention, with around 100 people in attendance, including Steven Mahr, the City of Chicago’s acting Chief Financial Officer. Mahr testified that while Chicago wants to retain the Bears, they are seeking “a fair and equitable” opportunity in negotiations.
“We’re not here today to discuss the details of an alternative proposal,” Mahr said. “We are asking for a concrete commitment on infrastructure investment so we can return with multiple viable proposals for a publicly owned stadium in Chicago.”
However, the bill has faced criticism, particularly over its proposal to freeze property taxes for nearly half a century. Rep. Rita Mayfield (D-Waukegan) called the lengthy tax freeze “absolutely ridiculous,” stating she would support moving the bill out of committee but expressing skepticism about its future in its current form.
“I can’t see anyone voting for that,” Mayfield said. “It’s just not plausible. When you’re looking at other districts such as mine, I would love a $200 billion project, but not on the backs of my taxpayers.”
Opponents like Brian Constin of Americans for Prosperity Illinois warned that the bill could shift a greater share of property taxes onto residents. Rep. Sonya Harper (D-Chicago) raised concerns about whether diverting revenue to major developments would shortchange school districts and other essential local services.
The debate is taking place amid aggressive efforts by Indiana lawmakers to lure the Bears across the state line, adding urgency to Illinois’ legislative process. Further discussions will continue when the full Illinois House returns on March 18.
Source: WCIA