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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Bring Chicago Home Cover
March 13, 2024

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

Implementing a graduated real estate transfer tax as a source of new revenue has some advantages, but it is also extremely volatile. There has not been sufficient evaluation of the proposed graduated tax’s potential impact on the City’s real estate market and economy or a...

. February 29, 2024

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

. 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?

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January 16, 2024

A Q&A With New Civic Federation President Joe Ferguson

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