Momentum is building — Crain’s features Bill Quinlan's vision for Chicago
November 10, 2025
Big news — Crain’s Chicago Business just published a major op-ed by our founder Bill Quinlan, spotlighting the urgent need for honesty and reform in how Chicago manages its finances.
In the piece — “TIF Surpluses Aren’t a Solution — They’re a Warning” — Bill calls out the billion-dollar “surplus” that City Hall is celebrating for what it really is: another short-term fix masking deeper problems. He argues that Chicago needs long-term discipline, not recycled dollars and political spin.
“Chicago’s finances are a house of cards built on short-term fixes. Every year, City Hall reshuffles the same deck and calls it a new hand — borrowing from tomorrow to pay for today.”
This is exactly the kind of clarity and leadership Leading a Better Chicago was created to bring to the table. Our mission is to elevate truth, push for practical reform, and inspire confidence that this city can work again — for everyone.
Since launching, we’ve:
- Convened experts from the CPD, NYPD, and National Guard for honest discussions about safety and leadership.
- Briefed sitting aldermen using our new polling data from Hart Research on how Chicagoans really feel about safety, schools, and city finances.
- And now, we’re driving the public conversation — with our research and ideas featured in outlets like the Chicago Tribune, Politico, and Crain’s Chicago Business.
Momentum is building. Chicago is listening. And with your continued support, we’ll keep leading with integrity, facts, and a vision for a city that’s safe, solvent, and strong.