- Meanwhile, back at the ranch. Democratic leaders in Springfield are close to a deal on a massive income tax hike, but the Trib says that Republicans want education and worker’s compensation reforms before they’ll consider higher taxes. The Sun-Times reports that some Democrats are demanding guarantees of more education spending and property tax relief in exchange for their support, and Southtown Star columnist Kristin McQuery writes about the two lame duck Dems from the south suburbs who may hold the key to the upcoming tax vote in the Illinois House.
- Metra movement. Daily Herald reports the Illinois House votes overwhelmingly for a plan that expands the jurisdiction of the state’s top inspector general to include Metra oversight. Senate concurrence is expected.
- “Guarding grandpa.” The Chicago Reader reports that Illinois is spending $428 million a year—a third of its corrections budget—to keep elderly inmates behind bars. Some can barely walk. Maybe this is the right target for an early release program.
- Flood funds? Also in the Herald, news that state officials may release 8-plus million remaining federal flood relief dollars to Cook County Board President Preckwinkle if she can demonstrate the money will be used to rebuild damaged homes and businesses, and not on frivolous Stroger administration activities like zoo parties.
- Election engineering? Southtown Star columnist Phil Kadner questions the fairness of an election challenge process that allows mayors and other incumbents to decide the ballot eligibility of their potential opponents.
