This article about a public hearing for Chicago Public Schools budget proposal and property tax increase notes the Civic Federation’s concern that the District’s long-term fiscal situation is unsustainable.
This article discusses public commentary at a recent Chicago Public Schools budget hearing. The Civic Federation says that CPS’ budget proposal is an estimate of its future expenditures and revenue and that budget planning is not an exact…
This article profiles many of the major reforms Chicago Public Schools may need to make in order to ensure long-term fiscal health. The Civic Federation says that because the District’s financial problems stem in part from delayed State of…
This article discusses the issues surrounding efforts to reduce public workforces, especially with regard to public safety employees, in order to fill budget gaps. The article cites the Civic Federation’s “…
After twice rejecting the plan, a State of Illinois board voted on August 16, 2011 to allow Cook County to close Oak Forest Hospital. The Illinois Health Facilities and Services Review Board approved the proposal by a vote of 7 to 1, with…
This article explores Chicago Public Schools’ decision to raise its property tax to the maximum amount allowed while also making program and staffing cuts to balance a $712 million budget gap using some of its reserves. The Civic…
The fiscal fallout to states and local municipalities resulting from Standard & Poor’s downgrade of the United State’s debt rating is the focus of this article. The article cites the Civic Federation’s “Cost of the Crisis” report,…
This article explores the possibility that Mayor Rahm Emanuel might consider privatizating of Midway Airport. The article cites the Civic Federation’s recommendation that the next mayor of Chicago consider leasing the airport to help pay…
This article discusses allegations of fraud by Chicago Fire Department employees. The article cites the Civic Federation’s recommendation that the mayor consider making cuts to the Department to help balance the City’s budget.
In this news segment about Chicago Public Schools proposal to increase its property tax levy to help fill its $712 million budget gap, Civic Federation Vice President Lise Valentine says that CPS is making difficult but reasonable choices…