It’s a topic that has been widely discussed in the media and across Illinois, with most specifics left unaddressed and many questions left unanswered.
Because of these outstanding questions and in light of the financial crises facing Illinois and its municipalities, the Better Government Association hosted “Municipal Bankruptcy: Is Your Hometown or School District the Next Detroit?” on Wednesday, June 3, 2015.
A BIG THANK YOU: Thursday night was full of hilarious family stories, the struggles of dog ownership, homebuying woes and more from Chicago-bred funnyman John Mulaney at the BGA’s summer comedy fundraiser.
See photos and video from the event!
Join the BGA for the 2015 Annual Luncheon with Emmy-award winning journalist David Muir, of ABC “World News Tonight.” We will also honor U.S. Attorney Zachary Fardon and his office with the BGA’s Watchdog Award.
Hosted by the BGA’s Springfield Advisory Committee, “FOIA Facts & Friction: The Future of Open Records Laws in Illinois” will be a balanced panel discussion that will consider the viewpoints of both those who make public information requests and those charged with responding to them.
So how transparent and open are Chicago charter schools? Hear what BGA investigators think. They’ll share their experiences getting info and public records about charter schools… and talk about the tools you need to get the info yourself.
BGA President & CEO Andy Shaw sits down for a candid conversation with Cook County Commissioner Jesus “Chuy” Garcia, a former Chicago alderman and state senator who is challenging Mayor Rahm Emanuel in Chicago’s mayoral runoff election on April 7.
BGA Citizen Watchdog Training teaches you how to keep an eye on government and report on what’s happening in your community.
In a series of free trainings, veteran journalists and legal professionals lead sessions on understanding government, the Open Meetings Act and the Freedom of Information Act. You’ll also hear from regular citizens who are involved and making a difference in their communities.
The BGA heads back to Springfield for an Idea Forum panel discussion. Hosted by the BGA's Springfield Advisory Board, the event will highlight the fresh perspectives of recently elected or appointed legislators in the Springfield and Central Illinois area.
6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Sign up for a one-on-one 15-minute session with an attorney at no charge! Meet with a FOIA expert from the BGA’s outside counsel for free […]
Richard Driehaus handed out a big surprise at The Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Awards for Investigative Reporting. He more than tripled the cash awards to the winners of the […]
