Mayor Johnson Hosts Emergency Talks to Resolve CPS Budget Crisis
Key stakeholders meet ahead of a pivotal Board of Education vote on a contentious budget amendment to address financial shortfalls and prevent a teachers strike.
- Mayor Brandon Johnson convened CPS CEO Pedro Martinez, CTU President Stacy Davis Gates, and other officials to mediate a solution to the $175 million pension payment dispute.
- The Board of Education will vote on a budget amendment proposing options like borrowing, refinancing debt, or reallocating TIF funds to address a $240 million shortfall.
- CPS CEO Pedro Martinez opposes reimbursing the pension payment, citing insufficient funds to cover both the payment and ongoing labor contract negotiations.
- The Chicago Teachers Union has accused CPS leadership of obstructing contract negotiations, adding to tensions as a potential teachers strike looms.
- Passage of the budget amendment requires a two-thirds majority, but divided opinions among board members leave the outcome uncertain.
Chicago Tribune 
