LINCOLN SQUARE — Chicago has been gradually phasing out condo refuse rebates since 2011 and this year the program finally reaches the end of the line.
The deadline has been extended until Feb. 9 for associations to apply for the rebate one last time. After 2016, this program is gone. (Click here for the application.)
Associations will receive $25 for every owner-occupied unit, a substantial decrease from the $75 per unit paid out in 2011. The rebate is only available to associations that previously participated in the program — associations formed after 2011 are ineligible.
The refuse rebate was introduced in 1984 as a way to compensate homeowners who don't receive city-funded scavenger service. Buildings with five or more units pay private contractors to haul away trash and recyclables.
For large high-rise associations, the rebate amounted to tens of thousands of dollars. Marina Towers reported a $65,000 rebate in 2011.
Eliminating the program altogether will save the city $6 million, according to the office of the Inspector General, which made the recommendation in 2011 to cut the rebates.
At the time, the city was facing a $635.7 million deficit. During that same budget cycle, Mayor Rahm Emanuel also slashed $6.7 million in funds from the Chicago Public Library, which was forced to close branches on Mondays.
Library hours were restored in July 2012, but there was no such reprieve for the rebate program.
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