An Illinois Answers Project and Block Club Chicago joint investigation found that Chicagoans made more than 214,000 complaints for rat abatement from 2019 through the end of 2022. Search the […]
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Posted inEducation
Records Raise Questions on CPS Transparency Over Near South Side High School Plan
Chicago Public Schools promised to listen to residents concerning the school location but did closed door planning for months. Appraisals for purchased land differ by millions of dollars, records show.
Posted inGovernment Finance & Accountability
City Has Spent Only 15% of $52M in Federal Money Dedicated for Homeless Programs
Two years after receiving the COVID-era funding, Chicago has been slow off the mark with some of its programs to help people experiencing homelessness.
Posted inInvestigating Responses
As Chicago Considers a ‘Mansion Tax,’ Evanston and LA Show Potential Paths Forward
Evanston is using its additional revenue to fund a housing reparations effort. Meanwhile, Los Angeles’ new funds are frozen as the tax is challenged in court.
Posted inOpinion
Greising: How Will Mayor Brandon Johnson Handle the Limits of His Power?
One of the biggest changes to the mayor’s powers, so far, is unfolding in the selection of a new police superintendent.
Posted inOpinion
Greising: Red Flag Tools Are Critical With Assault Weapons Ban in Limbo. We Need Court Transparency.
Because Illinois courts are exempt from FOIA requests, the public has no way of knowing how many restraining order requests are made and how many are denied.
Posted inInvestigating Responses
Could Chicago Impose an Income Tax? Here’s What It Looks Like in Other Cities.
As Mayor Brandon Johnson looks for new revenue, an income tax may be one of the city’s only progressive options. It comes with risks.
Posted inEvents
What to Know About Illinois FOIA Laws, From Public Records Expert Matt Topic
The Illinois Answers Project and Better Government Association hosted a free community FOIA training with attorney Matt Topic. Here’s a recap.
Posted inOpinion
Greising: What Options Do Evanston and Arlington Heights Have for Clinching Stadium Deals?
Arlington Heights and Evanston need to keep in mind that they, not their coliseum constructors, have the controlling seat in negotiations.
Posted inGovernment Finance & Accountability
How Chicago’s Newest City Council Leaders Plan to Use Their Power – Part 2
From crowdsourcing legislation to hosting meetings in neighborhoods, the new class of City Council leaders wants to democratize committee work.
