Issues: Local Government Pensions

The Civic Federation believes that public pension systems must be sustainably funded and well-managed. The Federation’s national reputation for expertise in pension funding and reform has been earned through years of in-depth research and analysis of employee retirement systems statewide. Read our analyses, recommendations for reform, and opinions about local public pension systems here.

Recent Research

  • 08.23.10

    Chicago Public Schools FY2011 Budget: Analysis and Recommendations

    The Civic Federation supports the Chicago Public Schools proposed $6.5 billion budget for FY2011, which is a reduction of 5.9% or $402.3 million from the proposed FY2010 budget. The proposed budget offers a short-term solution to the District’s difficult, deepening financial crisis. This budget will allow schools to open on time and continue to provide students with access to education across Chicago.

  • 03.08.10

    Status of Local Pension Funding Fiscal Year 2008: An Evaluation of Ten Local Government Employee Pension Funds in Cook County

    This report analyzes basic financial data on ten major local government employee pension funds in Cook County. It is intended to provide lawmakers, pension trustees, pension fund members and taxpayers with the information they need to make informed decisions regarding public employee retirement benefits.

  • 12.09.09

    Metropolitan Water Reclamation District FY2010 Tentative Budget: Analysis and Recommendations

    The Civic Federation supports the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District’s FY2010 Tentative Budget of nearly $1.7 billion as a prudent response to revenue shortfalls. The MWRD plans to prioritize spending, control personnel costs, and implement a modest increase to its property tax levy to balance its budget. The Federation cautions the District, however, that substantial changes may be necessary to stem growing pension liabilities.