SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WCIA) — Illinois lawmakers took a step forward on Thursday in their effort to keep the Chicago Bears in-state. House Bill 910 advanced in committee, but not without sparking debate on whether the measure would protect or burden taxpayers.
The discussion comes as Indiana lawmakers move aggressively to lure the team across the state line. The bill would create a “Mega Project” designation for large-scale developments like a new Bears stadium, allowing for tax incentives and infrastructure investments.
Co-sponsor of the bill Rep. Kam Buckner (D-Chicago) said the effort would create transparency in negotiations that might otherwise happen 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 said.
The bill would also obligate “Mega Projects” to invest at least $250 million and create 50 permanent full-time jobs, or invest $100 million and create 100 permanent full-time jobs.
Thursday’s hearing drew a crowd of around 100 people, including the City of Chicago’s acting Chief Financial Officer Steven Mahr. Mahr testified that Chicago would like to keep the Bears in town, but they were 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.”
Some lawmakers questioned whether freezing property taxes for nearly half a century is fiscally responsible. Rep. Rita Mayfield (D-Waukegan) called the lengthy tax freeze “absolutely ridiculous.” She told Buckner she would vote to get the bill out of committee, but isn’t optimistic about the bill’s future as currently written.
“I can’t see anyone voting for that… It’s just not plausible,” Mayfield said. “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.”
Brian Constin of Americans for Prosperity Illinois warned the bill could shift a greater share of property taxes onto residents. Rep. Sonya Harper, D-Chicago, questioned whether diverting revenue to major developments would shortchange school districts and other local services.
Further debate will continue when the full Illinois House returns on March 18.
According to WCIA.