Chicago’s mayor has long-promised to reform how special tax funds are spent on private projects. Her first move is a step but isn’t big enough for some.
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Posted inInvestigation, PolitiFact, Who's on Watch
Who’s on Watch? Q&A with BGA Lawyer Matt Topic
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Better Government Association is shifting gears to help inform the public about the government’s role and actions during the crisis. We (virtually) sat down with BGA attorney Matt Topic to ask him how he is responding to the coronavirus.
Posted inAction, Analysis, Policy
Safeguarding Democracy In a Pandemic
The BGA and other policy advocates offer guidelines for Illinois residents and their leaders to promote transparency and accountability in uncertain times.
Posted inWhat the Gov
What the Gov: How Is Coronavirus Affecting Public Transportation?
COVID-19 is touching nearly every aspect of our daily lives — including where we go and how we get there. What are the public transit agencies doing to respond?
Posted inFollow-Up, Investigation, PolitiFact
Fact-Check: Did Pritzker Lack Authority to Postpone the Primary?
It’s difficult to know for sure that Pritzker could not have done anything to delay the March 17 election. But experts told us the governor spoke correctly in describing the limits of his powers under existing law.
Posted inFollow-Up, Investigation
Coronavirus Crippling Chicago’s Census Outreach Effort
Mayor Lori Lightfoot, already worried about the city losing billions of dollars in the 2020 headcount, worked to boost participation in undercounted communities. Now COVID-19 is creating a major new hurdle.
Posted inWhat the Gov
What the Gov: What Is Behind Governments’ Ability to Keep Restaurants and Bars Closed?
Pritzker this week ordered restaurants closed for dine-in customers. How can he do that and what does the public need to know about how the closures are enforced?
Posted inWhat the Gov
What The Gov: What Questions Do You Have About How Government in Illinois Is Responding to Coronavirus?
What unanswered questions do you have about how public officials in Chicago, Cook County and Illinois are responding to the COVID-19 outbreak? Ask them and our BGA reporters may answer them.
Posted inEvents
RESCHEDULED: 2020 Richard H. Driehaus Foundation Awards for Investigative Reporting
Regretfully, in light of the COVID-19 outbreak, this year’s awards ceremony will be rescheduled for mid-July. We look forward to bringing together outstanding journalists and those who appreciate their work at that time. Stay tuned for details.
Posted inFollow-Up, Investigation
Lightfoot Facing Off Against ComEd Over the Future
With agreement between City Hall and the power company expiring this year, the mayor is focusing on internal study and federal investigation as leverage.