The Civic Federation

The Civic Federation is a non-partisan government research organization working to maximize the quality and cost-effectiveness of government services in the Chicago region and State of Illinois.

The Federation’s membership includes business and professional leaders from a wide range of Chicago-area companies and institutions.

The Civic Federation publishes reports and commentary about local government tax policies, government services, and public expenditures. The Federation’s new research institute, the Institute for Illinois’ Fiscal Sustainability, examines a wide range of fiscal issues relating to the State of Illinois.

Recent Research

01.22.10

State of Illinois Enacted FY2010 Budget: A Review of the Operating and Capital Budgets Enacted for the Current Fiscal Year

This report examines the $54.3 billion FY2010 operating budget for the State of Illinois that was approved by the General Assembly and signed by Governor Pat Quinn on July 15, 2009. The report...

12.18.09

Selected Consumer Taxes in the City of Chicago: December 2009

This brief provides an updated compilation of selected consumer taxes, including rates and descriptions, in effect in the City of Chicago on December 1, 2009.  It includes such taxes as the...

12.09.09

Metropolitan Water Reclamation District FY2010 Tentative Budget: Analysis and Recommendations

The Civic Federation supports the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District’s FY2010 Tentative Budget of nearly $1.7 billion as a prudent response to revenue shortfalls. The MWRD plans to...

12.02.09

Chicago Park District FY2010 Operating Budget Recommendations: Analysis and Recommendations

The Civic Federation offers qualified support for the FY2010 Chicago Park District’s proposed operating budget of $391.9 million. The District is proposing a responsible budget that reduces...