Chicago Ald. Brendan Reilly raised some eyebrows last month when he rejected a tax increment financing (TIF) district proposed in his 42nd Ward.  The move represented a new chapter in the ongoing push to rein in and provide more oversight over Mayor Daley's vast TIF network.  This weekend, Reilly appeared on WFLD's Fox Chicago Sunday to discuss the issue.  He was careful to emphasize that he is still a supporter of TIF, stating: "I actually think by saying no to this TIF proposal, we're strengthening the credibility and the integrity of the TIF program in Chicago."  But Reilly explained that the proposal in question would have diverted tax revenue to local building owners for very "self-serving" improvements and added: "The city of Chicago shouldn't be using these kinds of funds for that purpose."  Watch it:

You might have noticed that Reilly included "promoting corporate headquarter relocations" as a suitable use of TIF dollars.  That issue remains a point a contention, with ourselves and plenty of others expressing skepticism that such incentives are worthwhile. 

Here's to hoping that conversation -- and the broader debate over TIF -- continues into 2010.