This article reports on a tentative contract deal reached between the Chicago Public Schools and the Chicago Teachers Union. Civic Federation President Laurence Msall notes that CPS should not rely on TIF surplus funds, because they are…
This article discusses a proposed constitutional amendment on the November 2016 ballot that would prevent the State of Illinois from diverting transportation funds for other uses. Civic Federation President Laurence Msall explains that…
This article discusses how recent changes to expected rates of return and other factors for several of the State of Illinois’ pension funds are increasing pressure on the State to address reforms. Civic Federation President Laurence Msall…
This article analyzes the connection between pension debt and major tax increases among selected U.S. states and municipalities. Civic Federation President Laurence Msall notes that the percentage of state source revenue going to Illinois…
Decisions by two of the largest State of Illinois pension funds to reduce their expected rates of return on investment have …
Recent decisions by two of the largest State of Illinois retirement systems are expected to result in significant increases to statutorily required pension contributions in the upcoming budget year. This blog post discusses the decisions…
The Chicago Board of Education approved a reinstated dedicated pension levy as part of the Chicago Public Schools (CPS) FY2017 budget on August 24, 2016. The…
The following news pieces cover the Civic Federation’s recent analysis of Chicago Public School’s proposed FY2017 budget. As mentioned in the analysis, the…
District Should Detail Transparent Backup Plan In a report released today, the Civic Federation announced it cannot support the Chicago Public Schools proposed FY2017 operating budget of $5.46 billion. The budget effectively remains out-…
