Chicago Ballot: Advisory Measures Decide Local Priorities
Voters cast non-binding votes on gun detection, event spaces, and a new millionaire tax during the 2026 general election.
By Amina Kaminski ·
Chicago voters decided how the city should handle several key issues in Tuesday's general election.
Residents received four advisory referenda on their ballots. These questions allowed citizens to express opinions without creating binding policy. One query asked if the city should restart gunshot detection systems that alert first responders. Another asked if Chicago should build a permanent festival and outdoor event space for large gatherings.
A third measure focused on recovering funds from the federal government. Voters were asked if the city should pursue all lawful means to get compensation for costs linked to the Trump administration's ICE operations. The text specifically referenced the Midway Blitz operation led by Greg Bovino. It sought to recover lost tax revenue and public safety response costs for affected families.
The Chicago Public Schools district added two more questions. One asked if Illinois should use revenue from a surcharge on millionaires to boost school funding. The second asked if the city should require owners of long-term vacant commercial properties to pay an additional annual charge to support the schools.
Cook County residents also weighed in on the Millionaire Amendment for Property Tax Relief and Education. This proposal would enact a 3% income tax surcharge solely on millionaires. The plan directs 50% of the new revenue to property tax relief for residential and commercial taxpayers. The remaining half would improve state funding for public education.
Election results were delivered to The Associated Press based on sample ballots from the 2026 election.
