Cook County President proposes $9.69 billion budget for 2027

Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle has introduced a proposed $9.69 billion budget recommendation for fiscal year 2027. The balanced budget aims to close a $550 million gap without implementing tax increases, service cuts, or employee layoffs.

Preckwinkle attributed the ability to balance the budget despite external pressures—such as a court ruling freezing transportation revenue and federal healthcare funding cuts—to long-term fiscal discipline, including increased pension funding and credit rating upgrades. The budget includes significant funding for public health and public safety.

Additionally, Preckwinkle introduced a $206.9 million budget recommendation for the Forest Preserves of Cook County, representing a 6.6 percent increase over the 2026 budget. This request is intended to support ecological restoration, public engagement, and critical maintenance. A public hearing for the Forest Preserves budget is scheduled for October 15.