We Are A Non-Partisan Government Research Organization

Working to maximize government efficiency, transparency, and accountability in the Chicago region and Illinois since 1894

LATEST NEWS & RESEARCH

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Primer Report cover page
August 6, 2025

The Cook County Property Tax Extension Process: A Primer

This report explains the system and method for how property taxes are levied, calculated and collected in Cook County, Illinois. This is called the tax extension and billing process. Additional Civic Federation primers will explain the Cook County assessment, property tax...

. August 18, 2025

Setting the Record Straight: How Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Actually Interacts with the Chicago Public Schools

. August 20, 2025

Inspector General Report Finds Continued Ethical and Administrative Lapses at South Cook County Mosquito Abatement District

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August 12, 2025

The State of Illinois FY2026 Enacted Budget

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July 16, 2025

Examining Illinois' Public Workforce: Three Decades of State Personnel Trends

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July 2, 2025

What is a City Charter, and How Could Having One Help Chicago?

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July 14, 2025

Medicaid Cuts Enacted Under the Federal Budget Reconciliation Bill

Member Spotlight

The Civic Federation's membership is made up of civic, business, and nonprofit leaders spanning a range of sectors. Members bring an abundance of expertise in their respective fields, combined with a personal passion for working together to problem-solve and help our City and State thrive. Learn about some of our members through the Member Spotlight series (members' titles and affiliations reflect the spotlight publication date).

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GOVERNMENTS WE STUDY

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City of Chicago
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City of Chicago

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Cook County
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Cook County

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State of Illinois
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State of Illinois

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Chicago Public Schools
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Chicago Public Schools

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EL train
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Other Governments