The gold rush among corporations to demand expensive public help in underwriting development and jobs got a kick-start when tax incentives enticed Boeing to move its headquarters to Chicago.
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Posted inWhat the Gov
What the Gov: Will the Coronavirus Pandemic Affect Your Property Tax Bills?
Officials in suburban counties are considering waiving late fees on property tax payments to help give homeowners some financial relief.
Posted inInvestigation, PolitiFact, Who's on Watch
Who’s on Watch? Q&A with BGA Reporter Kiannah Sepeda-Miller
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 Kiannah Sepeda-Miller to ask her how she is responding to the coronavirus.
Posted inWhat the Gov
What the Gov: Can People Still Transport Dogs and Cats for Fostering or Adoption in Illinois?
Despite the coronavirus, animal rescues are still happening across the U.S. What restrictions are there, especially in states like Illinois where a “stay at home” order remains in place?
Posted inFollow-Up, Investigation, PolitiFact
Fact-Check: No, Illinois Isn’t Banning Alcohol Sales As Part of Coronavirus Response
False claims that Gov. J.B. Pritzker is halting alcohol sales in Illinois originated on a prank page that is being shared on social media.
Posted inFollow-Up, Investigation
Lightfoot Pushing to Make TIFs More Equitable but Changes Lacking for Critics She’s Tried to Win Over
Chicago’s mayor has long-promised to reform how special tax funds are spent on private projects. Her first move is a step but isn’t big enough for some.
Posted inInvestigation, PolitiFact, Who's on Watch
Who’s on Watch? Q&A with BGA Lawyer Matt Topic
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 attorney Matt Topic to ask him how he is responding to the coronavirus.
Posted inAction, Analysis, Policy
Safeguarding Democracy In a Pandemic
The BGA and other policy advocates offer guidelines for Illinois residents and their leaders to promote transparency and accountability in uncertain times.
Posted inWhat the Gov
What the Gov: How Is Coronavirus Affecting Public Transportation?
COVID-19 is touching nearly every aspect of our daily lives — including where we go and how we get there. What are the public transit agencies doing to respond?
Posted inFollow-Up, Investigation, PolitiFact
Fact-Check: Did Pritzker Lack Authority to Postpone the Primary?
It’s difficult to know for sure that Pritzker could not have done anything to delay the March 17 election. But experts told us the governor spoke correctly in describing the limits of his powers under existing law.