The Better Government Association has a long history of investigating government waste, fraud, mismanagement, corruption, cronyism, nepotism and malfeasance. Along the way, the BGA has exposed ghost payroll scams, vote fraud and the use of public resources for private gain. Hard-hitting investigations drive the BGA’s effort to re-engage a frustrated electorate. Some of our investigations result from tips we get from whistleblowers or insiders, but ordinary citizens who are concerned about good government can also help us bring about authentic change.

You can help us fight for good government.
Contact the BGA at info@bettergov.org or call (312) 386-9098.

Archives:  2008  2007

Water district chief owns firm that helps polluters
	October 30, 2009 - Do Mr. O'Brien's twin roles present a conflict of interest? How can an official be paid by polluters at the same time he's supposed to be policing them? Full Story
Taking Taxpayers for a Ride
	September 23, 2009 - It's a perk that is costing Illinois taxpayers billions of dollars: government-owned cars. You see them all over the road. They either have an 'M' or 'U' on their license plates. Full Story
Workers Give to Stroger's Campaign, Get Big Raises
	August 24, 2009 - Patronage workers with the Cook County Forest Preserve District are seeing more green these days -- in their paychecks. Full Story
Questionable Contracts in Cook County Planning Office
	July 9, 2009 - The Better Government Association and the Daily Herald recently finished up a two-part investigative series regarding Cook County’s Capital Planning and Policy Office. The investigation uncovered that all 11 contract winners donated to a county commissioner or relative. Full Story
Sleeping on the Job at Cook County Highway Department
	May 20, 2009 - High above the loop on the 24th floor of the Cook County Building, where we're told our tax dollars are hard at work, we found this county employee fast asleep at his desk. Full Story
Alderman Uses Expense Account to Reimburse Campaign
	March 18, 2009 - What happens when Chicago aldermen get their hands on generous expense accounts? And why isn't anyone watching? Full Story
Blago Contributors Get Dan Ryan Construction Contracts
	March 16, 2009 - When it comes to figuring out how taxpayer dollars are spent on big state road projects, it's wise to be prepared for a runaround. Take the massive reconstruction of the Dan Ryan Expy., which ended in 2007. Full Story
Berrios Seeks $344,000 for Lavish Furnishings
	February 4, 2009 - The recession and Cook County budget crisis haven't stopped some county government officials from submitting a lavish 'wish list' to pay for redecorating, new computers and other office equipment. Full Story