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

LATEST NEWS & RESEARCH

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Divided Waters report cover
October 2, 2025

Divided Waters: Addressing the Fragmentation of Water Governance in Northeastern Illinois

More than 5.5 million residents in northeastern Illinois rely on Lake Michigan for their drinking water needs. Yet, despite its undeniable importance, the system designed to manage this critical resource is a patchwork of competing interests and fragmented governance, res...

. October 9, 2025

Setting the Stage for the FY2026 Chicago Budget

. October 8, 2025

Improving Chicago’s Budget Process: The Case for a City Charter

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September 18, 2025

Chicago Public Schools FY2026 Budget Overview

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September 23, 2025

What is Equity-Based Budgeting?

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September 16, 2025

Mayor’s Budget Working Group Report: The Start of a Long Overdue Conversation

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August 26, 2025

Property Tax Collection Rates in Cook County: Trends, Disparities, and Fiscal Implications

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).

Keep up with the Civic Federation's latest research and recommendations on fiscal policy and other key issues facing our state and local governments.

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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