Large Majorities Support Housing & Jobs

Voters in a diverse sampling of precincts in the 46th ward were asked two referendum questions on important public policy issues (Nov4).

By a 2-1 margin, voters support 40% of TIF revenue being allocated to create/preserve housing that is affordable to households at or below that community's median income.

By a 4-1 margin, voters agreed that companies that benefit from public subsidies (including TIF) should be required to:
* give community residents firs tchance to apply for jobs
* ensure that all workers earn a Living Wage
* respect worker rights, include health and safety standards and the right to organize.

These same precincts voted roughly the same as the neighborhood and the city on the Obama-McCain race.

Policy referenda are advisory in Chicago, but clearly there is strong support among the electorate for progressive government policies that will help address the housing and employment crisis we face.