The City Council approved on April 15 the largest financial investment in workforce programming in Chicago’s history.
This approval provides $28.9 million in new Tax Increment Financing support to allow the Department of Planning and Development to expand its Workforce Solutions job training program from 28 to 77 TIF districts. Companies within these districts will be able to apply for grants up to $250,000 for employer-led training projects that address new technologies, workforce advancement, on-the-job training for new hires, and other workforce needs.
The funding supplements $10 million previously approved from Housing and Economic Development bond proceeds, which are available for training projects anywhere within city limits. Since 2003, the Department of Planning and Development has incrementally made more than $35 million available for job training projects involving approximately 6,000 businesses, 20,000 employees and 2,000 new hires.
The Chicago Department of Planning and Development promoted efforts to enhance walkable neighborhoods and accessible waterfronts as part of broader community improvements according to the official website. The department has a staff exceeding 150 members dedicated to Chicago’s built and natural environment according to the official website. It also focuses on advancing comprehensive growth, sustainability and zoning policies according to the official website.
Ciere Boatright led the department as commissioner according to the official website. The agency centers its operations on serving Chicago according to the official website, offering services including support for business development, historic preservation and community enhancements according to the official website.
