Those in the industry who spoke to CBS News Chicago said their margins are already so slim that an increased liquor tax could drive business owners to close their doors.

Bar owners are pushing back against a liquor tax hike proposal from Mayor Brandon Johnson that they say would ultimately decrease tax revenue. “Balance your budget like I do. Manage like I have to,” Robert Gomez said.

Those in the industry who spoke to CBS News Chicago said their margins are already so slim that an increased liquor tax could drive business owners to close their doors—and customers to drink outside the city.

The Chicago City Council on Thursday rejected Mayor Brandon Johnson’s plan to raise property taxes by $300 million that would have helped close a budget gap of nearly $1 billion for next year.

WGN Political Analyst Paul Lisnek joined WGN Evening News to discuss several big stories from the week. This week's topics include alders rejecting Mayor Johnson's proposed $300 million property tax hike,

In a special meeting, Chicago's City Council voted unanimously to remove the mayor's proposed $300 million property tax increase from the 2025 budget plan. Why it matters: The removal of the tax hike will force Mayor Brandon Johnson to make hard decisions on other ways to generate more revenue or where to make cuts to city services.