Frequently Asked Questions
How much would the Bears pay in taxes under the new Arlington Heights proposal?
The Arlington Heights proposal calls for the Bears to pay $6.3 million for the 2023 tax year and $3.6 million for 2024. An increase of 3-10% based on market conditions is built into the plan over the next three years.
Why did the Bears change their mind about Arlington Heights originally?
The Cook County Tax Assessors Office attempted to charge the Bears more than $16 million in taxes for the vacant Arlington Heights property. This massive tax bill led Bears brass to their change of heart about the Arlington Heights location.
What are Friends of the Park saying about the Bears stadium plans?
Friends of the Park voiced their opposition to the Bears' plan for a publicly owned domed stadium on the Chicago lakefront. They told the Bears the stadium should not be constructed south of Soldier Field and suggested using the vacant property where the Michael Reese Hospital once stood instead.
How do the proposed Arlington Heights taxes compare to other stadiums?
The proposed Arlington Heights taxes are competitive with other venues. In 2021, the United Center paid $6.1 million and Wrigley Field paid $2.7 million, while SoFi Stadium's tax bill was $8.8 million - all much lower than the $16+ million Cook County originally tried to charge the Bears.
What does Kevin Warren want regarding taxes for the stadium deal?
Kevin Warren wanted five years of tax certainty to move forward with the Bears' grand plan to build a sports complex and entertainment center. The new Arlington Heights proposal offers exactly that tax certainty Warren was seeking.