Public bodies throughout Illinois are holding virtual meetings during the statewide stay-at-home order. The Open Meetings Act still protects the right of citizens to observe and participate.
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Posted inFollow-Up, Investigation
COVID-19 Delivering Latest Twist in Fight Over Controversial Shipping Hub
Project recently approved by Joliet raising issues not only of economics but also of open democracy for governments making decisions as they adhere to social distancing and stay-at-home orders amid pandemic.
Posted inInvestigation, PolitiFact, Who's on Watch
Who’s on Watch? Q&A with BGA Reporter Madison Hopkins
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Better Government Association is shifting gears to help inform the public about the government’s role and actions during the crisis. We (virtually) sat down with BGA reporter Madison Hopkins to ask her how she is responding to the coronavirus.
Posted inFollow-Up, Investigation
Contractor In Little Village Smokestack Fiasco Was Cited In March For Blowing Dust — But City OK’d Demolition Anyway
A Hilco affiliate, contractor MCM Management Corp. and partners were hit with $3.75 million in environmental violations in Maryland.
Posted inFollow-Up, Investigation, PolitiFact
Fact-Check: Has Illinois Fallen Behind Other States in Testing for the Coronavirus?
Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot says the state is behind most others when it comes to COVID-19 testing — including all of its neighbors. But data show that while Illinois’ testing rate falls below average nationally, the state is outpacing those that surround it.
Posted inFollow-Up, Investigation
Coronavirus Scams Surging Across Illinois and Experts Predict More
Federal and local officials have gotten thousands of fraud complaints. Stimulus checks will create another tidal wave of fraud, authorities warn.
Posted inAnalysis, Perspective, Policy
Dillon and Topic: FOIA Is Essential During COVID-19 Emergency (and Always)
State and local governments have exercised extraordinary authority to deal with the public health crisis. That calls for more transparency, not less.
Posted inInvestigation, PolitiFact, Who's on Watch
Who’s on Watch? Q&A with BGA Policy Analyst Joann Wong
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Better Government Association is shifting gears to help inform the public about the government’s role and actions during the crisis. We (virtually) sat down with BGA policy analyst Joann Wong to ask her how she is responding to the coronavirus.
Posted inFollow-Up, Investigation
Aides Caring for Vulnerable Seniors Amid Coronavirus Still on the Job Despite Lack of Masks, Protective Gear and Social Distancing
As many as 22 home care clients who are part of an Illinois program have tested positive for COVID-19, including five who died, state says. Some home health aides also have tested positive.
Posted inPress Release
BGA Earns National Headliner Award Honors
Investigation into mayor’s insider deals and nepotism in southwest suburban Lyons recognized in one of the nation’s oldest journalism contests.