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Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson faces a critical budget deadline, vowing to prevent a government shutdown. The city must pass a budget by December 31st, or risk serious financial consequences. The mayor is considering vetoing the current budget proposal, which he believes is $165 million out of balance, potentially leading to layoffs, service cuts, or tax increases. Conservative and moderate alderpersons have removed the mayors proposed corporate head tax, replacing it with new taxes on plastic shopping bags, liquor sales, video gambling, and congestion fees for ride-sharing services. The mayors finance team questions the revenue projections for these new taxes. The mayors main concern is the decision to replace the corporate head tax with over $90 million in enhanced debt collections on everyday Chicagoans, which he deems immoral and not feasible. After a difficult negotiating session, opposition alderpersons say they are done negotiating with the mayor and believe they have enough votes to pass their budget, potentially overriding a mayoral veto.

Local McDonalds owners in Chicago, predominantly from diverse backgrounds, express concern over proposed tax increases. They fear these taxes could lead to reduced community giving, lower wages, and higher prices for customers, undermining the citys goals of encouraging businesses to invest in youth programs and boost education. These owners have been actively supporting their communities through various initiatives, including tuition assistance, job training, and community programs. They argue for policies that expand opportunities and strengthen neighborhoods to attract companies and young professionals.

Menashe Properties secures $45M loan for Chicago office building, signaling hope for downtown market. After purchasing the property in 2019, the Oregon investor now receives the same amount, indicating a significant increase in value. The companys strategy of creating ready-to-move-in office suites attracts new tenants, funded by the buildings cash flow. Menashe Properties uses the loan to buy another building at a discounted price, demonstrating the potential for recovery in Chicagos office market.

Fabias Shipman, a 37-year-old from Cook County, faces serious charges for allegedly possessing ammunition linked to a deadly Chicago shooting. Prosecutors claim Shipman had the ammunition on September 25th, which was later used in a shooting that killed one man and injured a teenager. Shipman, a felon, was legally barred from having firearms or ammunition. Hes been ordered to remain in custody until his trial.

Rommell Kellogg, brother of former Harvey Mayor Eric Kellogg, received a lenient sentence of one day in jail, already served, for collecting over $800,000 in bribes. Despite prosecutors request for 46 months, the judge considered Kelloggs age, health, and lack of prior record. Kellogg must repay $47,500 and is banned from contacting key figures. Another brother, Derrick Muhammad, pleaded guilty to bribery and faces sentencing. Former Mayor Eric Kellogg, uncharged, was identified as Individual A in the complaint.

Englewoods Green Line Station to Reopen: A Major Victory for Community Revitalization Englewood residents and activists celebrate a significant milestone as Governor J.B. Pritzker signs a state transit bill mandating the reopening of the long-closed sixty-third and Racine Green Line station. The historic one-point-five-billion-dollar funding package also includes restoration of the CTA Blue Lines Central station on the Forest Park branch. This news marks a triumph for generations of Englewood advocates who have fought to restore the station, which closed in 1994 and was saved from demolition in 1996. The reopening is expected to complement ongoing revitalization efforts in the area, including a community fresh market and dining destination.

President Trump plans to reclassify marijuana as a less dangerous drug, potentially saving the cannabis industry billions in taxes. This move could shift marijuana to Schedule Three, allowing doctors to prescribe it and nullifying a tax rule that burdens state-legal cannabis companies. However, this order wouldnt fully legalize marijuana at the federal level, and the industry would still face regulatory challenges.

Bears fans eagerly anticipate the NFL draft, with GM Ryan Poles success in the 2025 draft boosting hopes for the 2026 draft. The team faces salary cap challenges and needs immediate contributors. Sports Illustrateds mock draft suggests the Bears could land Ohio States Kayden McDonald, a defensive tackle with run-stopping prowess and pass-rushing upside, addressing a significant team need and aligning with their defensive scheme.

Orland Park Public Library kicked off its winter reading program with a festive Winter Wonderfest, featuring holiday music, activities, and even goats in sweaters. Meanwhile, Palos Park police cadets are collecting nonperishable food items for families in need, and Victor J. Andrew High School welcomed Doug Bozych as its new assistant principal of activities. At Moraine Valley Community College, Professor Nick Shizas continues his service-learning tradition, and local events include Skate With Santa, a Noon Years Eve party, and a handmade market in Chicago Heights.