After initially denying they have taxpayer-funded credit cards, government officials in the financially troubled western suburb release their credit card records—which show elaborate expenditures on the public dime. Among the big spenders: the ex-village manager who now serves as a Chicago alderman.
Follow-Up
Posted inFollow-Up, Investigation, Newsroom
Ill-Gotten Gains? At CPS, Unused Sick Days Pay Off
As part of the BGA’s Rescuing Illinois project, this investigation is the first in the Education Watch series shining a light on the state’s school systems.
Posted inFollow-Up, Investigation
Mayor Emanuel Cracks Down On Sick-Day Payouts
In wake of BGA investigation on former City Colleges chancellor, who stands to collect $500,000 in accrued sick time, Chicago mayor halts the practice and orders a review.
Posted inFollow-Up, Investigation
Former City Colleges Chief Due $500,000 in Unused Sick Pay
Since stepping down in 2009, ex-chancellor Wayne Watson has received a wellness windfall—$300,000, so far—but he’s not the only one benefiting from this sick system.
Posted inFollow-Up, Legal, Results & Reforms
APOLOGY, REPRIMAND
DEC. 12, 2011 — Following revelations by the BGA and FOX Chicago News that on-the-clock employees of Proviso High School Township District 209 may have been helping their boss, school board President Emanuel “Chris” Welch, with “opposition research” in his political campaign for state representative, Welch apologizes and the school district reprimands two workers.
Posted inFollow-Up, Investigation
IL Rep Gives Alderman’s Daughter Free Ride to U. of I.
In the latest controversy surrounding a lucrative political perk, the daughter of Chicago Ald. Anthony Beale—who has endorsed state Rep. Robert Rita for re-election in the past—ended up with a “legislative scholarship” from Rita.
Posted inFollow-Up, Investigation
Private-Sector Lobbyists Stand To Collect Public-Sector Pensions
Little-known aspect of Illinois state law allows employees of select trade groups to collect retirement benefits from taxpayers—a BGA Rescuing Illinois special investigation.
Posted inFollow-Up, Legal, Results & Reforms
AUDITORS FIND BLAME IN HOBART, IND., FIRE SALE
JAN. 12, 2012 — Following a BGA investigation into the questionable, under-the-table sale of municipal equipment by the City of Hobart’s now-former fire chief, auditors find he violated state protocols; the city increases oversight of assets.
Posted inFollow-Up, Investigation
Some Commissioners Fall Short on Furloughs
According to a report obtained by the BGA and the Chicago News Cooperative, four of the 17 Cook County commissioners did not fully abide by the furlough plan put in place last year to save hundreds of jobs.
Posted inFollow-Up, Investigation
Report Details CPS Free Lunch Fraud, Improper Financial Benefits
Findings by the Chicago Public Schools inspector general follow an investigation by the BGA and CBS 2 Chicago.