After CBS2 and the BGA highlight a potentially dangerous ambulance shortage in Chicago, two aldermen call for hearings and more emergency resources.
Results & Reforms
VIDEO RELEASED, COP PUT ON LEAVE
After BGA pushes for answers, the Village of Lynwood releases video of officer allegedly beating handcuffed suspect at the police station, and puts cop on leave pending possible discipline.
CITY PLEDGES MORE PARAMEDICS
After the BGA and CBS2 broadcast a series of stories on Chicago’s aging and otherwise stressed ambulance fleet, the Emanuel administration proposes hiring more paramedics and adding trauma-ready ambulances to the streets.
DOLTON POLICE SUPERVISOR FIRED
In wake of BGA legal action that forced mayor to release personal emails, Chicago Board of Ethics levies fine against David Plouffe, who lobbied mayor on behalf of Uber.
PENSION FUND ACTS FOLLOWING BGA PROBE
Prompted by a BGA investigation that raised questions about pension eligibility, the Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund decides to strip away taxpayer-subsidized retirement benefits from a politically connected attorney working for the municipal governments in Calumet City and Chicago Heights.
BURR RIDGE ADOPTS ETHICS PACKAGE
Following a BGA/CBS2 story about mayor-liquor commissioners accepting campaign donations from the alcohol-selling establishments they regulate, the Burr Ridge village board adopts measures banning such contributions.
CONGRESSIONAL PROBE LAUNCHED
After the BGA and the Chicago Sun-Times raise troubling questions about U.S. Rep. Bobby Rush’s personal, campaign and charitable finances, the Office of Congressional Ethics initiates an investigation into the veteran South Side congressman.
LEGISLATOR CUTS CHECK FOLLOWING BGA INQUIRY
After the BGA disclosed that state Rep. Luis Arroyo (D-Chicago) was benefiting from two property tax breaks on his personal property when only one was allowed, Arroyo issued a refund of more than $4,400.
REINING IN PARKING COSTS
Following inquiries for a BGA/NBC 5 story about state government spending more than $500,000 to park hundreds of vehicles in Loop parking garages last year, two public agencies pledge to negotiate lower rates to save taxpayers money.
STATE-GOVERNMENT PATRONAGE CRACKDOWN
After the BGA reveals massive clout hiring at the Illinois Department of Transportation, in apparent violation of a long-ago Supreme Court ruling, Chicago attorney Michael Shakman files a federal court motion seeking major reforms in how patronage is regulated in state government.