Issues: Privatization

The Civic Federation has traditionally supported alternative service delivery or privatization of non-core assets as an effective means of reducing costs and/or improving efficiency, provided there are adequate safeguards. In our view, competition from private, nonprofit, and even other public entities can help reduce the cost and operational inefficiencies of government services. Read The Civic Federation’s analyses, opinions, and commentary from the Federation’s work on privatization and alternative service delivery here.

Recent Research

  • 11.30.09

    Forest Preserve District of Cook County FY2010 Proposed Budget: Analysis and Recommendations

    The Civic Federation supports the FY2010 Forest Preserve District of Cook County budget of $198.2 million because the District will reduce its property tax levy by $1.1 million and use a portion of its budget reserve funds, rather than increase taxes, to balance its budget. However, the Civic Federation warns that the Forest Preserve District faces fiscal pressures due to rising personnel costs and should transfer law enforcement duties to the Cook County Sheriff and swimming pools to local park districts to maximize operating efficiency.

  • 12.19.08

    Cook County FY2009 Proposed Budget: Analysis and Recommendations

    The Civic Federation opposes the Cook County FY2009 proposed budget because it is built on an unstable foundation of $364.0 million in borrowed funds to pay for operating expenses less than a year after the County raised its sales tax by one percentage point. The report makes numerous recommendations for cost reductions, management reforms, and pension reforms.

  • 11.05.08

    Chicago Park District FY2009 Operating Budget Recommendations: Analysis and Recommendations

    The Civic Federation supports the Chicago Park District’s FY2009 budget because it is a fiscally responsible plan and demonstrates a commendable emphasis on cost containment and avoids a property tax increase for the fifth consecutive year. This has been accomplished utilizing reasonable increases in user fees and charges, personnel reductions, departmental consolidations and a three day District shutdown.