Facing a budget deficit challenge, Johnson aims to safeguard youth and workforce [Video]

CHICAGO (WGN) — Three weeks before delivering his 2025 budget address, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson was asked, “What type of future do we want to create for Chicago?”

The mayor and his financial team face an enormous challenge. The city is looking to close a gaping $1.2 billion deficit. Yet, pushback from the City Council continues, as many alders have pledged not to approve Johnson’s budget unless he re-ups on the terminated ShotSpotter contract.

At a press conference Friday, Johnson made his priorities clear.

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“Right now, we’re looking at all our options,” said Johnson, referring to where the city can reduce expenses.

Johnson did offer some clarity on what he wouldn’t cut.

“Thirty-thousand young people, we are going to hire next summer,” Johnson said. “That’s on the line with this budget.”

Johnson, who spoke at …