Election 2026: Three Chicago ballot questions voters will see

Chicago voters, listen up. When you head to the polls on November 3rd, you're getting three extra chances to weigh in on issues shaping the city. These are non-binding advisory questions. Now, the key word here is non-binding. That means even if a question passes with a majority, it doesn't automatically become law. Think of it as a citywide pulse check. So politicians know where Chicagoans stand. City leaders can then use those results to help shape future. Policy, here's what you'll see on your ballot. Number one, restarting gunshot detection systems. Should Chicago bring back systems like ShotSpotter? It used acoustic sensors mounted across neighborhoods to help police respond to gunfire. In 2024, Mayor Brandon Johnson phased out the city's contract, citing a lack of evidence that it actually helped make communities safer. $100 million for a walkie-talkie on a pole. And the reason why they said we needed it was to reduce gun violence. It didn't do that. But many alders, like 13th Ward Alderman Marty Quinn, want the technology back. Now it's up to you to weigh in. Number two, event sites. Should Chicago develop a permanent outdoor festival space? This one was introduced by 11th Ward Alderwoman Nicole Lee, and it addresses that longstanding question over the impact of festivals in Chicago neighborhoods. Some residents are frustrated that big events like Lollapalooza and Riot Fest damage park grounds and limit public access. There's no location in mind, but this vote gauges whether the city should start looking for one. Number three, recovering costs from Operation Midway Blitz. Should Chicago pursue all lawful means to get money back from the federal government for costs tied to ICE operations? UIC researchers estimate that immigration enforcement It led to more than $1.2 billion in lost restaurant and retail spending across Cook County. That study found that spending by Latin American immigrants in non-Latin American neighborhoods declined after the operation began. They are afraid and I don't know. People don't want to go out, even in the mall. People don't want to go shopping. And it's a drop in sales too, right? Yeah. The business is going down. Again, how you answer won't automatically change the law, but your vote will send a direct message to City Hall. Make your voice heard on November 3rd. Until then, you can keep up with all things election-related. Just head to fox32chicago.com, the Fox Local app, or any of our social media platforms.