March 30, 2010

The Civic Federation supports the Illinois General Assembly’s first steps toward comprehensive public pension reform in Illinois and urges state leaders to implement further reforms. On Wednesday, March 24, 2010, the Illinois General Assembly took the first important steps toward comprehensive public pension reform in Illinois by approving Senate Bill 1946 as amended by the Illinois House. The bill now awaits approval by Governor Quinn.

March 30, 2010

February 26, 2010

The Wall Street Journal - Page A6

The Wall Street Journal
February 26, 2010
- Page A6

This article discusses the difficulties State of Illinois Governor Pat Quinn may have in cutting spending and raising taxes to close the State’s budget deficit, estimated to be at least $12.8 billion. The piece cites the IIFS report, “A Fiscal Rehabilitation Plan for the State of Illinois,” which calls for cuts in spending, pension system overhauls, and tax increases to help balance the budget.

July 29, 2010 - 2:51pm


July 29, 2010

 

On Tuesday in New York City, the Governmental Research Association recognized the Civic Federation’s Institute for Illinois’ Fiscal Sustainability with its Most Distinguished Research Award for the Institute’s “A Fiscal Rehabilitation Plan for the State of Illinois."


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July 29, 2010

Chicago Sun-Times - Page 19

Chicago Sun-Times
July 29, 2010
- Page 19

This article is about how the City of Chicago’s unreserved 2009 cash balance of $2.7 million is indicative of major budget troubles. The Civic Federation says that a city as large as Chicago should have a budget reserve of at least $200 million and that Chicago is in a precarious financial position that will require a restructuring of its services.

July 28, 2010 - 2:12pm


July 28, 2010

On June 17, 2010 the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District held a study session to discuss office space options for the District’s administrative staff. Steve Weiss, owner of Weiss Architects LLC, presented a report on main office strategies that was commissioned by the District. Mr.


We welcome any questions and feedback about the content of this blog. Please e-mail blog@civicfed.org with your query.

July 22, 2010

WTTW's "Chicago Tonight"

WTTW's "Chicago Tonight"
July 22, 2010

In this segment of the “Chicago Tonight” news program about the City of Chicago budget and the City's use of proceeds from the parking meter privatization deal, Civic Federation President Laurence Msall said while the Federation generally supports privatization of non-core government services, it strongly opposes the use of the proceeds for operating expenses.

July 22, 2010 - 11:43am


July 22, 2010

Despite a $2 billion drop in the State’s annual revenues in FY2010 , the General Assembly passed Governor Pat Quinn's proposal to provide a back-to-school sales tax holiday for Illinois consumers as part of the FY2011 budget.


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July 21, 2010 - 10:03am


July 21, 2010

Last week the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District Board of Commissioners held a public study session meeting to discuss its upcoming FY2011 budget and projections for what the financial year may hold. The picture staff painted was grim, with increasing expenses for the District while revenue projections remain flat.


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July 20, 2010

July 20, 2010

The Motorola Foundation and the Civic Federation are pleased to announce a call for nominations for the 19th Annual Motorola Foundation Excellence in Public Service Award.

The Excellence in Public Service Award recognizes a non-elected government employee who has made an extraordinary impact on the quality of government services in state and local governments. The award seeks to honor individuals who show dedication to a vision of quality management, leadership, and innovation that leads to lasting achievements and more effective government in Illinois.

Individuals eligible for nomination are currently serving as non-elected state or local government officials in Illinois, including department heads and chiefs of staff.

July 16, 2010

Hosted by Harris Bank
Chicago, IL

July 16, 2010

Hosted by Harris Bank
Chicago, IL

Civic Federation Board members and guests heard Chicago Public Schools Chief Executive Officer Ron Huberman’s presentation about measures CPS is taking to combat a major budget deficit. Mr. Huberman outlined efforts to reduce administrative staff levels, renegotiate teacher contracts, and improve educational programming. He also described in detail new programs to overhaul underperforming schools. Mr. Huberman concluded by answering a number of questions from the audience.

Many thanks to Civic Federation Vice Chairman A.G. Anglum and Harris Bank for hosting the meeting.

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