Dear Neighbor,
Over the last two months, Alderman Waguespack (32nd Ward) and I have been working on passing the TIF Sunshine Ordinance, legislation that makes documents from Tax Increment Finance (TIF) district agreements available online on one site in a standard searchable format for every Chicagoan to see and review. This law will make the way the City uses taxpayer dollars more transparent and accountable to the public. The documents will be available on the Chicago Department of Community Development's website by July 30, 2009.
The ordinance was passed thanks to the editorial support it received, and the support registered by everyday Chicago citizens. Alderman Waguespack and I are grateful for the help, and heartened that the city rallied behind this cause. The testimony, consent, and support of private citizens and organizations helped move our proposal through committee and into law. We are confident that this ordinance will help the City better serve its citizens, and is a strong step in the direction of more open, accountable government.
Sincerely,
Manuel Flores,
Alderman, 1st Ward