Emanuel Backs Off on Cutting Services for the Homeless

Mayor Rahm Emanuel back-tracked this afternoon on his plans to cut funds for homeless services by restoring some of the funding necessary to continue overnight transport to shelters through the winter. The Sun-Times writes:

“Keeping Chicagoans safe during the challenging winter months is a priority,” the mayor said in a statement.

“By providing additional funds to fill this service gap, we will be able to offer critical transportation to shelters and ensure those most vulnerable find refuge from the harsh temperatures.”

Perhaps Emanuel read the letter that 28 aldermen sent to him yesterday asking for a meeting with Budget Director Alexandra Holt on proposed cuts to library staffing, 911 dispatching, graffiti removal and public health centers, and proposed fee hikes for water and sewer service and city sticker fees for SUV and larger vehicles. Or perhaps the city official's "Let them take cabs" gaffe was enough to change his mind.