Chicago Downsizing Christmas Tree (Photos) Budget Cuts

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By Cathy Beers Nov 3, 2009

Bah-Humbug! Chicago is downsizing the municipal Christmas tree because of budget cuts. According to an article from the Associated Press, special Events chief Megan McDonald says the municipal tree has carried a price tag in "the low six figures" in recent years. She says the city expects to spend half that this year.

Keri Russell at the 95th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at Daley Plaza in 2008. (Image: WENN)

NBC Chicago mocks it with a Charlie Brown Christmas tree comparison complete with photo. Anrew Greiner muses, "What's worse about this year's display is the tree, which was donated by a Palos Heights family, has a hole in it that officials will have to patch with extra branches."

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He adds, "In other words, the city plans to feature a giant version of the Charlie Brown twig." This year, the city has also landed a $100,000 from corporate sponsor Underwriters Laboratories, which will cover the 7,000 LED lights that will drape the tree.

A CBS News 2 Investigator report has photos and all the details here and notes that on the bottom line, the city will be saving taxpayers at least $150,000 this year by Trimming the Tree.

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