Brandon Johnson pays off debts to city of Chicago after owing thousands of dollars in unpaid bills, fines

CHICAGO - Chicago mayoral candidate Brandon Johnson reportedly owed the city of Chicago thousands of dollars in unpaid bills, fines and penalties until recently.

When FOX 32's Political Editor Mike Flannery reached out to the Johnson campaign for comment, the campaign did not deny any part of the article on Capitol Fax and confirmed that he has received various fines and fees from the city over the years.

"Like many working and middle class Chicagoans, the Johnson household has received various fines and fees from the City of Chicago over the years. These fines and fees are on a previously established payment plan, and are on schedule to be fully resolved before Brandon Johnson takes office as our next mayor," Johnson's campaign said. 

According to the political blog, Johnson owed $3,357.04 in unpaid water and sewer charges. He paid his water bill for the first time since June 22, 2022, in February. And, when he did pay his bill in February, it was only for $91.08.

Additionally, Johnson reportedly owed the city $1,044.58 in unpaid traffic tickets from 2014 and 2015.

WATCH: Brandon Johnson addresses overdue bills he owes to the city of Chicago

He has also accrued $6,661.70 in fines and penalties due to nonpayment.

In the state of Illinois, someone who owes an unpaid debt to a municipality would not be eligible to take the oath of office for an elected position in said municipality.

Thus, if Johnson is elected mayor, he would not be able to be sworn in as mayor if he still owes money to the city of Chicago.

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Johnson also reportedly makes over $175,000 a year.

The city of Chicago told FOX 32 that Johnson paid his debts to the city as of March 31.

Chicago Ald. Anthony Beale responded to this report with the following statement:

"Not paying your water bill and owing the city over $3,000 when you make over $175,000 per year as a paid lobbyist like Brandon Johnson is ridiculous and irresponsible. Johnson is earning a six figure salary as a union lobbyist and another taxpayer funded salary as a County Commissioner, he wants to raise taxes by $800 Million, but won’t even pay his own bills. Chicago needs a Mayor who can manage our city, not someone who can’t even manage his own money."