Chicago: ICYMI: Chair Ervin Implores CPS to Follow Through on Commitment to Pension Payment
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CHICAGO ~ In a recent editorial published in the Chicago Tribune, Alderman Jason Ervin, Chair of the City Council Budget Committee, called on members of the Chicago Board of Education to honor their commitment to pay Chicago Public Schools' portion of the MEABF pension payment.

Ervin highlighted that for the past five years, CPS has consistently made their portion of the pension payment. Last year, in a show of good faith and partnership with the school district, Mayor Brandon Johnson reduced CPS' payment from almost $300 million to $175 million.

However, Ervin expressed concern over recent statements made by Board President Miguel del Valle and Chief Financial Officer Pedro Martinez regarding this year's pension payment. Del Valle and Martinez have argued that CPS has no legal obligation to make this payment.

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Ervin clarified that no member of the City Council disputes this fact. The issue at hand is that when appropriating a large surplus last year, council members were operating under the understanding that CPS would fulfill its commitment to make the pension payment. By not doing so, CPS is putting over $300 million in potential surplus for next year at risk.

The alderman also pointed out that if CPS does not make this payment, it could result in an increase in taxes for Chicago residents. He criticized Martinez for shifting responsibility onto taxpayers instead of finding a comprehensive solution.

Ervin emphasized the need for a productive working partnership between the City Council and CPS to improve schools rather than engaging in a political showdown. He urged both parties to work together towards finding a solution that benefits all stakeholders involved.

The full editorial can be read at this link. As Chair of the City Council Budget Committee, Alderman Ervin's words carry weight and serve as a reminder to all involved parties to honor their commitments and work towards a common goal for the betterment of Chicago's schools.

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