By Justin Carlson, from May 21, includes “Chicago had planned to use half of its federal relief funds to pay down pandemic debts, but new federal guidance may prevent that. Regardless, without pension reform the city will continue drowning in debt. … As Chicago now decides how to spend its share of the funds, Mayor Lori Lightfoot cautioned aldermen not to get too excited about fulfilling their wish lists.  … Lightfoot’s administration is right that paying down short-term debt is the most fiscally responsible use of the funds.”