Chicago's expensive evergreen

[Hotel Cass]

There's been a lot of talk in Chicago over the past few weeks about the Christmas tree that's usually erected by the city in Daley Plaza. This year, because of budget constraints, the city has downsized the tree installation. The tree and various other aspects of the installation have been donated by various parties, and the whole thing has been generally downscaled. Nevertheless, the installation will still reportedly cost the city $100,000.

I'm wondering if anyone has determined why this is so. Even if you're paying union laborers and electricians $100/hour, that still adds up to 1,000 man-hours, which seems very high to erect and illuminate such a modest tree.

Has anyone heard/read an explanation about this?

Thanks!