From the Trib, we read:
Wednesday, Daley reduced a proposed 20 percent increase in the tax on beer to 10 percent, or about four cents for a case of 24 cans. But the increase on other alcoholic beverages would go up as a result. A proposed increase of $1.50 on a gallon of hard liquor, for example, would rise to about $1.85.Proposals Daley originally made to raise the tax on car rentals and the cost of sidewalk cafe licenses were dropped, but the fine for blocking an alley would rise from $75 to $150.
Proposed tax increases overall still would total $74.6 million next year. Fee and fine increases would be expected to drum up another $11.1 million.
Some aldermen have predicted that Daley's proposed increase in the sales tax--putting the total at 9 percent for most purchases in Chicago--would drive shoppers to the suburbs.
"Where else are you going to turn [for revenue]?" Daley replied.
"A 25-cent [increase] on a $100 purchase is not going to change behavior," asserted Budget Director John Harris.
I think I'm supporting the city every time I slam a six! whoomp!
