SPRINGFIELD — Bears Stadium Legislation Update
Although the Illinois General Assembly did not pass any legislation affecting the Chicago Bears’ stadium ambitions this session, a suburban lawmaker mentioned that they came close to reaching a deal on property tax legislation. This proposal was largely perceived as a strategy to facilitate the team’s relocation to Arlington Heights.
State Representative Mary Beth Canty, a Democrat from the northwest suburbs, stated, “We were super close and just ran out of time.” The Bears announced mid-May that they were shifting their focus from constructing a new lakefront stadium in Chicago to Arlington Heights, where they acquired the former Arlington International Racecourse property two years ago. Although the spring legislative session concluded as June began, legislators will likely revisit this issue in the fall.
Contrastingly, State Representative Kam Buckner expressed skepticism regarding the alleged closeness to an agreement, emphasizing that no formal deal was introduced in the legislature. Buckner, a Democrat whose district includes Soldier Field, remarked, “If they want to leave and use state dollars or ask for special tax protections to do it, they’ll have to come through Springfield,” stressing the importance of direct dialogue with the Chicago delegation.
This legislative session witnessed several bills aimed at modifying state laws to better support large-scale projects, such as a new Bears stadium. However, Canty acknowledged that the proposed compromise language that garnered some support was never formally introduced.
The intended changes would allow local taxing districts across the state to have more control, rather than merely facilitating the Bears’ move to a specific suburb. Canty indicated ongoing efforts, stating, “We’re going to keep working all through the summer,” without committing to any predictions regarding the fall veto session.
The push for a new domed stadium in Chicago has encountered significant obstacles since the Bears proposed that the state take on $900 million in new debt alongside $1.5 billion for infrastructure improvements. Although relocating to Arlington Heights may appear straightforward, the team faces challenges, including disputes with the local village and school districts over property taxes.
Governor JB Pritzker has expressed a personal preference for the Bears to remain in Chicago but remains cautious about allocating taxpayer funds for a private stadium. Regarding the prospects for supportive legislation for the Bears, he noted his general endorsement of financial mechanisms like STAR bonds, but clarified that this idea isn’t specifically tailored for the Bears.
Reported by Jeremy Gorner.
