CMAP Media Tip Sheet

February 25, 2014

This tip sheet briefly summarizes newsworthy activities of the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning (CMAP). Reporters should contact Justine Reisinger (312-386-8802 and jreisinger@cmap.illinois.gov) or Hillary Green (312-386-8619 and hgreen@cmap.illinois.gov) for more information.

Analysis shows widespread use of sales tax rebates as an economic development incentive

CMAP analysis of an Illinois Department of Revenue database reveals that 343 active sales tax rebate agreements exist in more than 130 municipalities across the seven-county region.  With a potential price tag of $430 million, these incentives are used by local governments to attract and retain businesses and development. Rebates go to businesses that range from retail and vehicle dealerships to sales and distribution offices, including offices and warehouses that have sales sourced to their locations.  While nearly a third of the active sales tax rebate agreements in the region are for vehicle dealerships, almost half are for retail purposes such as grocery and drug stores, gas stations, and shopping centers. This work builds on CMAP's July 2013 report Examination of Local Economic Development Incentives in Northeastern Illinois.

Report explores local and regional effects of land use decisions

Land use decisions by local governments have profound effects not just for their communities, but also for the region as a whole. Fiscal and Economic Impact Analysis of Local Development Decisions examines local and regional implications of municipal fiscal policies. Read more in a Policy Update.  The CMAP report features 31 case studies from the metropolitan Chicago region, with an additional assessment of regional economic and market impacts.

Legislative agendas connect policy to GO TO 2040 implementation

CMAP's 2014 Federal Agenda and State Legislative Framework and Agenda reflect policy priorities important to the implementation of the GO TO 2040 comprehensive regional plan. The agency shares these materials with policy makers in Washington and Springfield to articulate policies for transportation, land use, housing, the environment, and economic development, as well as to build support for regional comprehensive planning efforts.

Northeast DuPage residents can provide on-line input for future of housing

Residents of Addison, Bensenville, Villa Park, and Wood Dale can provide feedback on the types and location of housing they'd like to see in their communities at www.nedupage.metroquest.com through March 27. Feedback will be incorporated into the Homes for a Changing Region plan under development by this cluster of communities in partnership with CMAP, the Metropolitan Planning Council, and Metropolitan Mayors Caucus.

CMAP receives national Smart Growth Award for GO TO 2040

GO TO 2040 received the 2013 National Award for Smart Growth Achievement in the category of policies, programs, and plans from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency this month.  CMAP is proud to share the award with the many local government, business, and civic partners who have contributed to the plan's development and implementation.  CMAP's executive director Randy Blankenhorn accepted the honor at an awards ceremony. GO TO 2040 and other awardees are featured in a U.S. EPA video and booklet (see page 10).