In a heated debate during a budget committee meeting, Democratic aldermen in Chicago voiced their concerns over the city's decision to allocate an additional $70 million for the care of migrants who have arrived in the city. Amidst growing tensions over the allocation of resources, some aldermen argued that the needs of the city's own residents were being neglected.

Ald. Chris Taliaferro of the 29th Ward expressed his frustration, stating, "We are not taking care of our own. We have all but forgotten the residents on the West Side and South Side." Taliaferro's sentiment was echoed by others who raised concerns about the lack of funding for local initiatives, such as after-school programs and efforts to combat youth homelessness.

The proposal, put forward by Mayor Brandon Johnson and approved by the budget committee with a vote of 20-8, seeks to draw from the city's assigned fund balance from 2022. This comes in addition to the $150 million already allocated towards addressing the migrant crisis in Chicago.

However, some city officials questioned the necessity of the additional funds, arguing that the city should prioritize its own citizens. Ald. Anthony Beale of the 9th Ward, also a Democrat, criticized the proposal, saying, "Here we are begging for more money when we don't have money for the people here. We don't have money for after-school programs. We don't have money to help our kids get off the street."

Budget Director Annette Guzman clarified that the $70 million would be sourced from the city's assigned fund balance from 2022. The proposal now awaits approval from the full City Council, with a vote expected as early as Wednesday.

The decision to allocate additional funds for migrant care in Chicago has ignited a passionate debate among city officials. While concerns over the well-being of migrants are valid, the critics argue that the city should prioritize addressing the needs of its own residents, particularly those in disadvantaged neighborhoods.

As the City Council prepares to make their decision, the outcome of the vote will determine how the city balances its responsibility to migrants with the pressing needs of its own citizens.