THE CIVIC FEDERATION IS A NON-PARTISAN GOVERNMENT RESEARCH ORGANIZATION

Working to maximize the quality and cost-effectiveness of government services in the Chicago region and State of Illinois

LATEST RESEARCH

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Evaluation of the Pretrial Fairness Act's Implementation in Cook County
March 28, 2024

Evaluation of the Pretrial Fairness Act's Implementation in Cook County

As the first state in the country to completely outlaw the use of cash bail, all eyes are on Illinois to see how implementation of the new law is working. Cook County is Illinois’ largest county, and it appears the county was well-prepared to implement the Pretrial Fairne...

. March 13, 2024

Graduated Real Estate Transfer Tax and Bring Chicago Home Proposal: Data and Policy Analysis

. February 29, 2024

Civic Groups Call on Chicago City Council to Improve Transparency and Public Access

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February 20, 2024

Looking Back at Illinois’ Five-Year Fiscal Report Budget Projections Ahead of the Release of the Governor’s Recommended FY2025 Budget

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February 6, 2024

Cook County TIF Revenue Continues Record Growth

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February 2, 2024

Civic Federation Celebrates 130th Birthday, Launches Historical Timeline, Remembers Laurence Msall

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January 26, 2024

How Much Does the Chicago Police Department Actually Spend Each Year?

OUR MISSION

Non-partisan government research is more important than ever.

Founded in the aftermath of the 1893 Chicago World's Fair by the same local leaders who made the legendary event a reality, the Civic Federation provides objective research, analysis and recommendations that:

  • Champion efficient delivery of high-quality government services
  • Promote sustainable tax policies and responsible long-term financial planning
  • Improve government transparency and accountability
  • Educate and serve as a resource for policymakers, opinion leaders and the broader public
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GOVERNMENTS WE STUDY

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City of Chicago
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City of Chicago

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Cook County
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Cook County

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State of Illinois
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State of Illinois

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Chicago Public Schools
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Chicago Public Schools

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EL train
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Other Governments