Inside Chicago Government: Recent Episodes
Inside Chicago Government
Hear government insiders, activists, and journalists dive deep into the dark corners of Chicago government--driving shadowy deeds into the light. If you want to hear voices--voices that clue you to the backstage actors that affect our city--listen closely, because we're Chi!
In an audio interview, transit professional Britton Budd gives insights into challenges with CTA's Red Line Extension, and creation of the Northern Illinois Transit Authority. Length 27.3 minutes.
In a discussion by journalists Dave Glowacz and Ben Joravsky, Dave and Ben probed Ben probed Dave's ongoing investigation into police workforce allocation. In the standard and premium versions, Dave and Ben discussed typical budget tactics used in Mayor Brandon Johnson's proposed 2025 budget; the past and future challenges of police workforce data; and the "clots of clout" that could frustrate efforts to deploy police personnel effectively. (For the premium version, which includes audio from quoted sources, subscribe at chigov.com.) Length 47.7 minutes.
In an audio excerpt, Cook County Assessor Fritz Kaegi revealed the impact of tax-increment financing on the sinking property assessments of Loop office buildings. Length 4.5 minutes.
Fifteen City Council members called a special April 1 meeting to oust Ald. Byron Sigcho-Lopez as housing committee chair. In a discussion by journalists Dave Glowacz and Ben Joravsky, Dave and Ben analyzed the raucous gathering. (Subscribers can find the full-length version at chigov.com.) Length 52.1 minutes.
In this audio from a public meeting of the Chicago Police Board on Feb 22 2024, a clash took place between the heads of the Chicago Police Dept. and the Civilian Office of Police Accountability. Length 31.2 minutes.
In this audio piece, Chicago Police Dept. Superintendent Larry Snelling lent support to the controversial Shotspotter system--which Mayor Brandon Johnson has opposed. The top cop's remarks came at a January 13, 2024 public meeting of Chicago's Community Commission on Public Safety and Accountability. Length 17.5 minutes.
In this audio piece, a Chicago Police Dept. sergeant revealed unsafe and unhealthy conditions at the 11th District police station on the West Side. Length 9.1 minutes.
In a discussion by journalists Dave Glowacz and Ben Joravsky, Dave and Ben evaluated meetings of the Chicago City Council that took place in November of 2023. In the standard version, council members reacted to 32nd Ward Ald. Scott Waguespack's move to censure 35th Ward Ald. Carlos Ramirez Rosa. In the premium version: One alderman claims, explicitly, what Rosa did to intimidate her; Rosa's act of contrition; controversy around two proposals for referenda to be put before voters in March; and the raucous rules committee meeting. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.) Length 11.3 minutes.
In a discussion by journalists Dave Glowacz and Ben Joravsky, Dave and Ben probed audio from several meetings of the Chicago City Council in September, 2023. In the standard version, Mayor Brandon Johnson and aldermen introduced a measure to use real estate transfer taxes for housing the unhoused. In the premium version: aldermen discussed tax-increment financing to buy a building intended as a migrant shelter; a controversy around Mayor Johnson's pick for city comptroller; and why and how the the Sept. 13 full-council "phantom" meeting took place. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.) Length 10.3 minutes.
In audio from a June 2, 2023 public meeting, lawyers from the city of Chicago and the American Civil Liberties Union clashed on the pace of police reforms mandated by the 2019 Consent Decree. Length 23.2 minutes.
In this audio piece, a public safety commission member questioned police workforce allocation--a matter also highlighted in a report by Mayor Brandon Johnson's transition team. Length 6.8 minutes.
In this audio piece, members of Chicago’s Use of Force Community Working Group criticized use-of-force training by the Chicago Police Department. Length 8.5 minutes.
In a discussion by journalists Dave Glowacz and Ben Joravsky, Dave and Ben probed audio from 2023's May 24 and May 31 meetings of the full Chicago City Council. In the standard version, aldermen reacted on May 24 to Mayor Brandon Johnson's proposed slate of 20 council committees and their associated chairs. In the premium version: finance committee chair Ald. Scott Waguespack's May 24 concession speech; rancor at the May 31 meeting caused by the administration's proposed funding of migrant support; and how members of the public were barred from the May 24 meeting. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.) Length 11.4 minutes.
In an audio interview, former Chicago Inspector General Joe Ferguson described an effort to formalize the training of new aldermen, and gave insights into why it failed. In the standard version, Ferguson described how the idea of an aldermanic handbook came to him. In the premium version, Ferguson explained how the handbook came together, why it fell apart, and how some of the fundamental challenges of city governance could be addressed by comprehensive, formalized aldermanic training. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.) Length 6.5 minutes.
In a discussion by journalists Dave Glowacz and Ben Joravsky, Dave and Ben listened to and evaluated audio from a special March 30 meeting of the full Chicago City Council. In the standard version, aldermen spoke against expanding the number of council committees from 19 to 28. In the premium version: aldermen spoke in favor of the new committees and related rules; how claims of independence smack of hypocracy; and whether the council must vote on the new committee structure again. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.) Length 11.2 minutes.
In a discussion by journalists Dave Glowacz and Ben Joravsky, Dave and Ben heard and weighed parts of the March 2023 meeting of the full Chicago City Council. In the standard version, aldermen passionately debated whether to accept state funding for the city's migrant efforts. In the premium version: the state-funding debate continued, including a suprise parliamentary move; aldermen and Mayor Lightfoot doubled down on parliamentary moves and avoided debate on a controversial labor-union law; and different aldermen's "parting shots"--both favorable and not--at the outgoing mayor. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.) Length 11.2 minutes.
In a discussion by journalists Dave Glowacz and Ben Joravsky, Dave and Ben heard and appraised parts of 2023's February meeting of the full Chicago City Council. In the standard version, approval of tax-increment financing for a Lincoln Ave. project bespeaks a lack of transparency. In the premium version: an alderman's blockage of Norfolk Southern Railway's South Side expansion; and multiple dramas erupting from Mayor Lightfoot's move to fast-track a Commonwealth Edison franchise agreement. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.) Length 12.1 minutes.
In an audio interview, Dave Glowacz spoke with First Ward Ald. Daniel La Spata about the training of new City Council members. In the standard version, La Spata spoke of plans to have newbies shadow their experienced peers. In the premium version: how the city's "formal" training lacked key info and had outright falsehoods; the disappearing contact info for residents; the crucial skill of lobbying; how to get put on committees; and the "jargon giraffe." (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.) Length 6.9 minutes.
In a discussion by journalists Dave Glowacz and Ben Joravsky, Dave and Ben listened to and evaluated meetings of the Chicago City Council that took place in December of 2022. In the standard version, aldermen spoke in favor of Red Line Extension (RLE) tax-increment financing (TIF). In the premium version: opposition to the RLE TIF, and what that says about TIF in Chicago generally; an overwhelming--but somewhat puzzling--approval by aldermen of a replacement for one of their peers; an activist alderman scuffled with Mayor Lori Lightfoot over a gun-control ordinance; and another attempt by aldermen to take control of committee chairmanships from the mayor. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.) Length 8.5 minutes.
Jonathan Silverstein, a budget analyst fired by the city's Council Office of Financial Analysis, explained his recent report: "The Real Cost of the Chicago Police Department." In the standard version, Silverstein revealed the city of Chicago’s unusual budgeting practice: Many costs attributable to police are left out of CPD’s budget allocation. In the premium version: how other major cities handle their police budgeting; the effect of Chicago's budgeting scheme on taxpayers; the city's persistent, if not mysterious, tendency to under-budget CPD's overtime costs; and why Silverstein's revelations are coming now. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.) Length 10.6 minutes.
In a discussion by journalists Dave Glowacz and Ben Joravsky, Dave and Ben listened to and evaluated meetings of the Chicago City Council that took place in October and November of 2022. In the standard version, aldermen challenged Mayor Lightfoot's administration about how and whether the proposed 2023 budget resurrects the Dept. of Environment. In the premium version: the education committee's acting chair disputed Lightfoot's attempt to appoint a different chair; and aldermen spoke for and against the mayor's proposed city budget. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.) Length 13 minutes.
In a discussion by journalists Dave Glowacz and Ben Joravsky, Dave and Ben assessed the September, 2022 meeting of the full Chicago City Council. In the standard version, aldermen argued over a proposed rezoning of Chicago Housing Authority land for a soccer facility. In the premium version: zoning committee chair Ald. Tom Tunney maneuvered to further the soccer facility scheme; an aldermanic appointment by Mayor Lori Lightfoot portends a showdown over council autonomy; and a North Side alderman waved a knife while protesting a police misconduct settlement. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.) Length 11.3 minutes.
In an audio interview with Ill. government veteran Kevin Lamm, Dave Glowacz explored a 1980 state constitution amendment that fundamentally changed the state House. In the standard version, Lamm explained the big switch in 1980 from cumulative voting in House districts. In the premium version: Pat Quinn's citizen referendum; a more polarized House of Representatives; Tom Quinn argues for the switch; and ranked choice voting as a successor to cumulative voting. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.) Length 7 minutes.
In a discussion by journalists Dave Glowacz and Ben Joravsky, Dave and Ben analyzed the July, 2022 meeting of the full Chicago City Council. In the standard version, members of the public remain cut off from aldermen. In the premium version: Ninth Ward Ald. Anthony Beale's speed camera curb goes down; boosted enforcement against illegal drag racing; and the mayor defends her NASCAR race scheme. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.) Length 9.3 minutes.
In a discussion by journalists Dave Glowacz and Ben Joravsky, Dave and Ben dissected June, 2022 meetings of the Chicago City Council. In the standard version, the ethicality of a non-election aldermanic turnover in the 24th Ward. In the premium version: more legislative twists and turns for Ninth Ward Ald. Anthony Beale's attempt to raise the speed at which Chicago's speed limit cameras are triggered. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.) Length 10 minutes.
In a discussion by journalists Dave Glowacz and Ben Joravsky, Dave and Ben evaluated May, 2022 meetings of the Chicago City Council. In the standard version, aldermen showed their upset with a ward remap compromise--and with each other. In the premium version: pointed objections to Mayor Lightfoot's casino project; aldermen tussle over the mayor's proposed new curfew rules; and an effort to grill city officials about youth safety comes to a surprising conclusion. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.) Length 10 minutes.
In a discussion by journalists Dave Glowacz and Ben Joravsky, Dave and Ben evaluated April and May, 2022 meetings of the Chicago City Council. In the standard version, aldermen oppose Mayor Lightfoot's $12.5 million proposal to distribute 100,000 prepaid transit cards and 50,000 prepaid gas-station cards. In the premium version: aldermen speak in favor of the transit and gas giveaway; a convoluted vote on the giveaway; a trance of TIF gifts; 9th Ward Ald. Anthony Beale push to cut speeding tickets thwarted again; and Ald. Brendan Reilly bets against a temporary casino in the 42nd Ward. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.) Length 10 minutes.
In a discussion by journalists Dave Glowacz and Ben Joravsky, Dave and Ben evaluated March, 2022 meetings of the Chicago City Council. In the standard version, excitement and confusion over the council's first-ever use of electronic voting. In the premium version: dismay and righteousness at the mayor's proposed casino super-committee; the special council session to approve a new 11th Ward alderman; and the current drama around the effort to create a council legal staff. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.) Length 7.5 minutes.
In a discussion by journalists Dave Glowacz and Ben Joravsky, Dave and Ben listened to and opined on parts of 2022's February meeting of the full Chicago City Council. In the standard version, aldermen discussed the city's policy around a particular (but not unique) proposed purchase of a former Aldi grocery store in a TIF district on the West Side. In the premium version: aldermen heap honors upon Ill. Secretary of State Jess White and citizen-at-large George Blakemore; the final part (perhaps) in the saga of Mayor Lightfoot's appointment for the head of COPA; and the latest on the proposed ordinance that lets the city seize assets of gang leaders. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.) Length 8.6 minutes.
In a discussion by journalists Dave Glowacz and Ben Joravsky, Dave and Ben evaluated the Chicago City Council's "unfinished business" in evidence at its meetings that took place in January, 2022. In the standard version, 9th Ward Ald. Anthony Beale worked, again, at the Jan. 26 full council meeting to establish a legislative parliamentarian and legal staff. In the premium version: the full drama that unfolded on Jan. 26 around Ald. Beale's effort; the fate of Mayor Lori Lightfoot's emergency spending measure; and aldermanic frustration with the mayor's nominee to head the Civilian Office of Police Accountability. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.) Length 9 minutes.
In a discussion by journalists Dave Glowacz and Ben Joravsky, Dave and Ben assessed the December 2021 meeting of the full Chicago City Council. In the standard version, aldermen clashed over fiscal responsibility versus rewarding bad guys in settlements of police misconduct lawsuits. In the premium version: Mayor Lightfoot responds to criticism by her former chief lawyer; the continuing saga of Ald. Anthony Beale's quest for council legal staff; the mayor's emergency spending ordinance gets felled, then jumps back up; Ald. Anthony Napolitano's final speech before colleagues OK housing against his wishes; the pandemic-caused seating of council members; and Ald. Carrie Austin's medical emergency. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.) Length 8.9 minutes.
In an audio interview, Ald. Anthony Beale of the Ninth Ward spoke of a proposed ordinance that would let Chicago's City Council hire its own legal department. In the standard version, Beale described the legal staff's proposed roles. In the premium version: the key role of council parliamentarian; why council members have stymied a vote; and Beale's "fiery exchange" with Mayor Lightfoot. Length 2.5 minutes. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.)
In a discussion by journalists Dave Glowacz and Ben Joravsky, Dave and Ben evaluated November 2021 meetings of Chicago's City Council, the mayor, and Police Board. In the standard version, a controversy erupted over a mayoral appointment for the permanent head of the Civilian Office of Police Accountability. In the premium version: Mayor Lightfoot's emotional reaction to Ald. Walter Burnett (27); a proposed lawsuit settlement could affect how the police dept. allocates cops citywide; aldermen clash over the decennial redrawing of ward boundaries; and another top manager leaves the Office of Inspector General. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.) Length 11.1 minutes.
In a discussion by journalists Dave Glowacz and Ben Joravsky, Dave and Ben assessed October meetings of the Chicago City Council. In the standard version, outgoing Inspector General Joe Ferguson warned council members about things to come. In the premium version: a mayoral proposal for people to opt out of the Chicago Police "gang database"; the council prolongs a TIF district near Lincoln Yards; Ald. Anthony Beale (9) tries--and fails--again to move stalled ordinances; Ald. Ray Lopez (15) emulates Ald. Brendan Reilly (42) in a parliamentary manuever; and police union Pres. John Catanzara pressures aldermen around a vaccine-related power shift. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.) Length 9.5 minutes.
In a discussion by journalists Dave Glowacz and Ben Joravsky, Dave and Ben probed a September meeting of the Chicago City Council. In the standard version, aldermen debated a collective bargaining agreement with the Chicago Police patrolman's union. In the premium version: council members discussed a limit on the distribution of single-use foodware; Ald. Jim Gardiner (45) gave an apology to the full council; Ald. Anthony Beale (9) tussled with Mayor Lightfoot and other council members over speed limit cameras; and, at its August meeting, the Chicago Plan Commission debated low-income housing near O'Hare airport. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.) Length 10.6 minutes.
In an audio piece, housing specialists and others talk about how the creation of low-income housing in Chicago is tied to higher-income apartments--pursuant to a new Illinois incentive for developers. The standard version gives previews of comments made in the premium version by these speakers: Gov. JB Pritzker; state Rep. Will Guzzardi (D-39); Chicago housing consultant John McDermott; author Dr Robert Chaskin; Ohio State Univ. professor Dr Rachel Kleit; and Related Midwest executive Jacque Sandberg. Length 2.5 minutes. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.)
In a discussion by journalists Dave Glowacz and Ben Joravsky, Dave and Ben digested slices of July 2021 meetings of the Chicago City Council. In the standard version, aldermen traded wildly different takes on the proposed Community Commission for Public Safety and Accountability. In the premium version: aldermen zealously argued for and against the elected public safety commission; council members considered a rule to streamline approval of public way permits, while retaining aldermanic prerogative; and an illuminating exchange between a city lawyer and aldermen over a lawsuit payout in the case of a shooting by police. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.) Length 9.6 minutes.
In a discussion by journalists Dave Glowacz and Ben Joravsky, Dave and Ben heard and critiqued parts of the June 2021 meeting of the full Chicago City Council. In the standard version, a parliamentary manuever on a mayoral appointment results in an unexpected, early adjournment. In the premium version: Mayor Lightfoot forces the approval of another appointment; the mayor brings the meeting to a close over fervent aldermanic objections; at a June 25 meeting, a mayoral ally thwarts a mayoral plan that'd weaken aldermen; and aldermen grill the police superintendent at a special July 2 meeting. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.) Length 9 minutes.
In a discussion by journalists Dave Glowacz and Ben Joravsky, Dave and Ben listened to and evaluated parts of the May 2021 meeting of the full Chicago City Council. In the standard version, aldermen tried to delay environmentally challenged affordable housing in the 12th ward. In the premium version: racial equity talk fails to stop a cannabis dispensary expansion; a parliamentary move brakes a Lake Shore Drive renaming, but puts a sponsor into overdrive; and a council character gets cut off. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.) Length 8.5 minutes.
In a discussion by journalists Dave Glowacz and Ben Joravsky, Dave and Ben listened to audio from April 2021 meetings of the Chicago City Council. In the standard version, aldermen wrangled over expansion of a North-Side cannabis dispensary. In the premium version: Mayor Lightfoot cuts off an alderman's mike, channelling Richard J. Daley; wildly differing cost estimates for a police complaint database; reporters who "roll around in the depths of cesspools" of mayoral rumor; and profanity erupts over the renaming of Lake Shore Drive. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.) Length 8.4 minutes.
In a discussion by journalists Dave Glowacz and Ben Joravsky, Dave and Ben listened to audio from the March 2021 session of the full Chicago City Council. In the standard version, alderman argued over a proposed resolution calling for condemnation of violence in India. In the premium version: debates over a building demolition surcharge pilot in Pilsen and Logan Square; lining up for and against industrial zoning regulations to address environmental concerns; and controversy over a proposed guaranteed income. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.) Length 8.8 minutes.
In an audio interview, Alderman Andre Vasquez of Chicago's 40th Ward talked about a City Council resolution he co-sponsored that calls for a hearing on how Chicago will redraw ward boundaries. In the standard version, Vasquez defended his resolution from critiques by the council's Latino Caucus. In the premium version: questions about selecting an independent remap commission; how non-whites can represent whites; and avoiding the "back room." Length 5.1 minutes. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.)
In a discussion by journalists Dave Glowacz and Ben Joravsky, Dave and Ben listened to audio from February 2021 sessions of the Chicago City Council. In the standard version, Ald. Ed Burke (14) blasted Mayor Lori Lightfoot's proposal to apply $281.5 million of federal COVID-19 relief (via the CARES Act) to the police budget. In the premium version: Lightfoot's infamous Feb. 24 expletive; dense parliamentary maneuvers to force adjournment; warnings of federal scrutiny; and council concerns about resuming in-person meetings. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.) Length 8.3 minutes.
In this audio piece, members of the Chicago City Council Latino Caucus blast a proposed independent commission for redrawing ward boundaries--prompting a contrarian response by Mayor Lori Lightfoot. In the premium version, hear the entire Jan. 27 Latino Caucus press conference. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.) Length 6.1 minutes.
In a discussion by journalists Dave Glowacz and Ben Joravsky, Dave and Ben listened to audio from several January 2021 sessions of the Chicago City Council. In the standard version, aldermen voiced frustration with Metra pursuit of tax-increment financing for rail crossings. In the premium version: tension over Chicago's carjacking epidemic; another delay of a South Side community policing outpost; differing meanings of "transparent" redrawing of ward boundaries; and Mayor Lightfoot scolds aldermen on an immigration enforcement measure. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.) Length 8.2 minutes.
In an interview with Dave Glowacz on the Chicago Reader's Ben Joravsky Show, Dave and Ben analyzed audio from a December, 2020 City Council hearing about the botched police raid on the home of Anjanette Young, and from the council's full meeting. In the standard version, aldermen wondered why no staff from the Dept. of Law were present to answer questions. In the premium version: the cost and efficacy of search warrant-based raids; how long police must wait before busting down a door; police supe's frustration with "the Chicago way;" and the mysterious burying of an immigrant-related ordinance. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.) Length 6.9 minutes.
In this audio piece, we hear Chicago Inspector General (IG) Joseph Ferguson warn members of the City Council about departures of key officials--and the effect on reform of the Chicago Police Department (CPD). In the standard version, Ferguson explained the big turnover in the position of Deputy IG for Public Safety. In the premium version, Ferguson spoke of the "fiscal consequences" of departures by the other key players in Chicago police reform--and why their exit will stymie transformation of CPD. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.) Length 2.8 minutes.
In an interview with Dave Glowacz on the Chicago Reader's Ben Joravsky Show, Ben and Dave comment on audio from November 2020's approval by the Chicago City Council of Mayor Lori Lightfoot's 2021 budget ordinances. The standard version features an audio collage of aldermen voicing their support for and objections to the mayor's budget proposals. In the premium version: incongruous votes by some; the annual criticisms don't change, but the critics do; what happens to progressive revenue proposals; and an alderman plays the age card. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.) Length 7.5 minutes.
In an audio interview with former Chicago budget director Paul Vallas, Dave Glowacz explored ideas for the city of Chicago's 2021 budget. Length 6 minutes. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.)
In an audio interview with an inquisitive Chicago voter, Dave Glowacz explains one way to choose Cook County judges in a general election: by using the bar association recommendations found at voteforjudges.org. This episode is reprised from an October 29, 2016 interview. Length 16.1 minutes. (For the full-length video version, subscribe at chigov.com.)
In an interview with Dave Glowacz on the Chicago Reader's Ben Joravsky Show, Ben and Dave react to audio from October 2020 meetings of the Chicago City Council. In the standard version, aldermen want more say in approving TIF-funded projects. In the premium version: how minority-owned businesses get city contracts; how a proposed affordable housing ordinance got sidelined; and a proposed end to funding for cops in schools. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.) Length 7.8 minutes.
In an interview with Dave Glowacz on the Chicago Reader's Ben Joravsky Show, Ben and Dave react to audio from the August and September 2020 meetings of the full Chicago City Council, including: whether an emergency resolution attacks the mayor; demands for hearings around the police budget; a start on combatting South Side gentrification; and a surprise TIF sunshine proposal. Length 11 minutes.
In an audio interview with veteran Alderman Anthony Beale of Chicago's 9th Ward, Dave Glowacz explored the Lightfoot administration's relationship with some of the more independent-thinking members of the City Council. Length 4.3 minutes. (For the full-length version, subscribe at chigov.com.)
In an interview with Dave Glowacz on the Chicago Reader's Ben Joravsky Show, Ben and Dave listen to audio from the July 2020 meeting of the full Chicago City Council, including: why council members fear tenant protections; how (and whether) the mayor blindsided an alderman around a landmark district; the city gropes toward a police complaint database; and a lengthy tribute to a mayoral staffer. Length 9.1 minutes.
In an interview with Dave Glowacz on the Chicago Reader's Ben Joravsky Show, Ben and Dave listen to audio from the June 2020 meeting of the full Chicago City Council, including: more votes against the mayor; a reparations commission vote prompts pleas and scolds from black aldermen; cops in schools and out of some wards; and more leaks from a "confidential" mayoral conference. Length 7.4 minutes.
In an interview with Dave Glowacz on the Chicago Reader's Ben Joravsky Show, Ben and Dave listen to audio from the May 2020 meeting of the full Chicago City Council, including: aldermen not "brought in" on TIF funding of parks; grousing about minority contracting at the new Trib Tower development; one aldermen chides colleagues for asking too many questions (a "slippery slope"); a mayoral speech on collegiality; and new aldermen use an old tactic. Length 7.8 minutes.
In an interview with Dave Glowacz on the Chicago Reader's Ben Joravsky Show, Ben and Dave listen to audio from the first-ever videoconference meeting of the full Chicago City Council. We hear pushback on a COVID-19 emergency powers ordinance proposed by Mayor Lori Lightfoot--from Alds. Jason Ervin (28), Ray Lopez (15), Emma Mitts (37), Carlos Ramirez-Rosa (35), Byron Sigcho-Lopez (25), and Michele Smith (43). Length 6.1 minutes.
In an interview with Dave Glowacz on the Chicago Reader's Ben Joravsky Show, Ben and Dave listen to audio clips from the last meeting of Chicago aldermen before the city's "shelter in place" edict. We hear an administration critic choke on an attempted attack; a South Side alderman wins a dramatic TIF concession; and, in the face of a dire pandemic, Dave and Ben embrace the aldermanic routine. Length 7.9 minutes.
In an interview with Dave Glowacz on the Chicago Reader's Ben Joravsky Show, Ben and Dave listen to audio clips from notable moments of the Chicago City Council's February meeting: animal rights activists get a lesson in how and when to protest; the fast-moving approval train puts on the brakes; and aldermen debate whether they should "roll the dice" in settling a police misconduct lawsuit. Length 6 minutes.
In an interview with Dave Glowacz on the Chicago Reader's Ben Joravsky Show, Ben and Dave discuss the City Council's first 2020 meeting: Mayor Lori Lightfoot rebukes aldermanic concerns about LGBT business support; aldermen's selective concern about divvying up "the pie;" and, after 1.5 hours of honors, aldermen blow through key diktats in seconds. Length 6.6 minutes.
In an interview with Dave Glowacz on the Chicago Reader's Ben Joravsky Show, Ben and Dave discuss the City Council's divided approval of Mayor Lori Lightfoot's 2020 budget: Irving Park/Elston TIF district dust-up implies planning dept.'s executive order uncertainty; some aldermen voted against higher property taxes--but voted for big TIF deals that could raise those taxes; the "debate" over ambulance rides paid for by Medicaid; the principled resistance of Alds. Ray Lopez and Anthony Beale; Ald. James Cappelman maybe makes going along sound like legislative savvy; whether corporate clout will forever keep the city from progressive revenue sources; and mayoral retribution against naysaying aldermen: myth vs. reality. Length 9.1 minutes.
Budget analyst Jonathan Silverstein, of the Council Office of Financial Analysis, lays out a 2020 "city budget for dummies," including: how COFA has come unleashed--and how it's still "hamstrung;" how the City Council's finance, budget, and analysis staffs differ in function; which 2020 budget changes came from outside forces vs. the mayor's choices; how pension law and past debt indulgences led to a projected 2020 deficit; the lasting effect of past lawsuit settlement underestimates; how the mayor touted "zero based budgeting," but we have "no way of verifying that;" "inefficient" hiring slow-downs as a legacy method of cost savings; and how the Law Dept. should "lawyer up," while it chafes at the Shakman bit. Length 6.2 minutes.
This episode presents an audio collage of comments by Chicagoans who spoke at Mayor Lori Lightfoot's budget town halls in September and October of 2019. Lightfoot asked residents to "give public testimony on Chicago's 2020 budget"--and they offered plenty of ideas on public pensions, mental health services, affordable housing, loafing city workers, tax-increment financing, and why Chicagoans are being priced out of the city. Length 6.9 minutes.
In an audio interview with freshman Alderman Daniel La Spata of Chicago's 1st Ward, Dave Glowacz explores how new City Council members get the training and orientation needed to do their jobs. "We want our aldermen to be the strongest civil servants they can possibly be," La Spata said--which takes "a much more robust orientation" than the city provides. La Spata detailed what's missing, and how he'd fix it. Length 35 minutes.
Dave Glowacz talks with the Chicago Reader's Ben Joravsky about how live radio differs from podcasting; the health of the Reader; whether news reporters should express partisan opinions and positions; biases embedded in news reporting; and Dave and Ben's role reversal. Length 5.8 minutes.
In an interview with Dave Glowacz on the Chicago Reader's Ben Joravsky Show, Ben and Dave discuss aldermen's shock and outrage of Mayor Lightfoot's elevation of Ald. Waguespack; the new mayor vs. the "Beale-Burke axis" in a City Council shake-up; former planning dept. Commissioner David Reifman: real estate cheerleader or public servant; how developer Sterling Bay ended up with ownership of the Chicago River's banks; what prompted Friends of the Chicago River to support Lincoln Yards. Length 6.7 minutes.
In an interview with Dave Glowacz on the Chicago Reader's Ben Joravsky Show, Ben and Dave discuss the city's defense of the Cortland/Chicago River tax-increment financing (TIF) district and the Lincoln Yards development. Length 6.8 minutes.
In an interview with Dave Glowacz on the Chicago Reader's Ben Joravsky Show, Ben and Dave chew on this: Ald. Hopkins' belief that 'the right side should prevail;' the contrast of Amazon's NYC snub and a Cortland TIF denial; rules and duels that delayed the Cortland TIF vote; Ald. Hairston cites 'blight' sleight used to justify TIF; Ald. Reilly calls a developer's bluff on a TIF subsidy need; and Ald. Smith uncovers TIF financing costs. Length 6.4 minutes.
Debunking--or validating--Bob Fioretti's claim that TIF saps revenue from governmental bodies; Daley, Enyia, and Fioretti's population-growth goal maybe stymied by TIF; and how ripple effects from developments like Lincoln Yards make Chicago less affordable. Length 7 minutes.
In an interview by Ben Joravsky with Dave Glowacz on WCPT-AM's Ben Joravsky Show, Mr Bike reveals how local planners have challenged mayoral candidates to adopt a bold Chicago transportation vision. Ben and Dave discuss sources of revenue to fund better transit; why bike lanes don't go far enough to encourage cycling; and state legislators' strategy to legalize marijuana. Length 5.9 minutes.
Did WCPT owner Fred Eychaner fire Joravsky from his radio show due to Ben's rigorous examination of mainstream Chicago Democrats? Also: how the Reader sheltered Ben from the repeated turnover of wealthy owners; whether radio bosses duped Ben with a glowing performance review; how not to ambush radio guests; and Ben says he'll return. Length 6.5 minutes.
In an interview by Ben Joravsky with Dave Glowacz on WCPT-AM's Ben Joravsky Show, Ben and Dave recap residents' objections to the Lincoln Yards development; how the Hideout became a focus of the Lincoln Yards challenges; and aldermanic power of TIF district approval. Also: Mr Bike's cold-weather biking tips, and city treasurer Kurt Summers' rebuke of Mayor Emanuel. Length 5.2 minutes.
The many candidates, issues, and referenda currently facing Chicago voters; the state income-tax lesson of Illinois Gov. Ogilvie; and the ethicality of a candidate running for two offices at once. Length 6 minutes.
Tax-increment financing's central flaw around inequity; how mayoral candidates' voter calculus might craft their reactions to TIF; and comparing the approaches to developer subsidy of Ald. Proco Joe Moreno and Ald. John Arena. Length 6.9 minutes.
In an interview by Ben Joravsky with Dave Glowacz on WCPT-AM's Ben Joravsky Show, Ben and Dave discuss how Chicagoans in black areas have gotten bicycling tickets in far greater numbers than those in white areas. Also: what laws bikers must obey; Senate votes for a Supreme Court nominee; and Barack Obama's announced support of Illinois statewide candidates. Length 5.2 minutes.
In an interview by Ben Joravsky with Dave Glowacz on WCPT-AM's Ben Joravsky Show, Ben and Dave discuss the merits of tax-increment financing for the Congress Theater; whether term limits result in better government; and whether heads of state write their own opinion pieces. Length 5.8 minutes.
How city budgets have changed over three decades; Mayor Emanuel's approach to public input--that differs from Mayor Daley's; and where effective budget oversight can come from. Length 6.8 minutes.
In an interview by Ben Joravsky with Dave Glowacz on WCPT-AM's Ben Joravsky Show, Ben and Dave discuss how to get past a mental "biking block;" how to accommodate bicycling on Lake Shore Drive; and dealing with agression on the road--from both cyclists and motorists. Length 5.4 minutes.
History of the GOP's denigration of "liberal" in the '70s and '80s; why further-left Democrats want to distinguish themselves from other Dems; and whether positions on particular issues indicate a progressive stance. Length 5.2 minutes.
In an interview by Ben Joravsky with Dave Glowacz on WCPT-AM's Ben Joravsky Show, Ben and Dave discuss the how write-in candidates qualify for elections; the legitimacy of exit polls; the city of Chicago's bid to host Amazon's HQ2; and Chicago transit-oriented development contrasted with a proposed California scheme. Length 5.5 minutes.
Where citizens should best find candidate info; when media outlets should report on the horse race rather than issues; and the unexpected exemplars of Noam Chomsky's precepts on citizen movements. Length 5.9 minutes.
In an interview by Ben Joravsky with Dave Glowacz on WCPT-AM's Ben Joravsky Show, Ben and Dave discuss the contrast between the behavior of Cook County Board commissioners and Chicago aldermen; the nature of public comment at Cook County Board meetings; and how Dave's tweets differ from those of Pres. Trump. Length 5.6 minutes.
In an interview by Ben Joravsky with Dave Glowacz on WCPT-AM's Ben Joravsky Show, Ben and Dave discuss projects that Mayor Emanuel could promote ahead of the "cocktail train" to O'Hare; how to look everywhere while bicycling; and how to bicycle when the bike lane's clogged with plowed snow. Length 5.5 minutes.
First-ever audio of Rahm's infamous 2008 phone call with Blagojevich; a capsule history of CPS CEOs since the advent of Chicago school "reform;" and the racism of white Chicago office-holders who rail against corruption. Length 6.8 minutes.
Ben's technique for interviewees who duck the question; Ben's growing reluctance to write direct quotes; and whether Ben gives former Gov. Pat Quinn a pass on Quinn's actions. Length 6.1 minutes.
The history of Reader ownership; whether the Reader's new owners have figured out how to turn a profit; and how wealthy and powerful owners have affected Reader journalism. Length 5.7 minutes.
In an interview by Ben Joravsky with Dave Glowacz on WCPT-AM's Ben Joravsky Show, Ben and Dave discuss the political behavior linked to bicycling; the origin of Chicago bicycling lanes and other facilities; and whether most Chicago cyclists favor subsidizing an Amazon HQ. Length 7.6 minutes.
In an interview by Ben Joravsky with Dave Glowacz on WCPT-AM's Ben Joravsky Show, Ben and Dave discuss why Chicago's "Vision Zero" plan has zero vision; the inadequacy of Chicago's much-lauded transit system; and whether to implement a motorist toll for the central business district. Length 6.5 minutes.
The impact on Reader staff of Wrapports' proposed sale; the attrition of Chicago newspapers; and which newspapers have provided an independent voice. Length 5.1 minutes.
Which of Gov. Bruce Rauner's "reforms" most threatens the Democratic party; Rauner's possible motives for wanting to freeze local property taxes; and how Rauner's policies resemble those of former Pres. Obama. Length 7.5 minutes.
The story behind CPS chief Forrest Claypool's threat to end the 2017 school year early; Dem gubernatorial candidate Chris Kennedy sees primary-election voters as better informed than general-election voters; and David Axelrod's slam on Hillary Clinton. Length 4.8 minutes.
The culimation of a lifetime of radio listening; characteristics of the radio station's left-leaning audience; and synergies between broadcast and print material. Length 5.7 minutes.
In an interview by Ben Joravsky with Dave Glowacz on WCPT-AM's Ben Joravsky Show, Ben and Dave discuss the loyalty of Chicago bicycle riders to bike-friendly mayors. Length 5.2 minutes.
Roots of the Rauner/legislature pension-funding fray; the many meanings of "reform," including "cuts;" and the mayor wants new train projects, but who else cares? Length 7 minutes.
The mayor turns a billionaire bungle into a lakefront bundle; plutocrat chest-thumping over retiree health-care cuts; and the Jackson Park golf project as a case study in top-down community development. Length 7.2 minutes.
Whether the city needs all of the Red Purple Modernization elements; how much slush the RPM TIF district can accumulate; and Mayor Emanuel's tentative effort to lead a Trump resistance. Length 7.5 minutes.
Joravsky's role in the bargaining unit; the contentious issues that have prevented a contract agreement; and the dilemma facing activist journalists. Length 6 minutes.
Why Ald. Pawar flaunted a TIF surplus alternative, then took it underground; why the Board of Education doesn't care that TIF diverts property taxes from education; and how the city applies TIF surplus to the schools budget. Length 6.7 minutes.
Divvy installations as products of the mayor's fiduciary wizardry; why the Fleet Dept. move works better for taxpayers than the McCormick Marriott deal; and why the city finally will make use of the North Branch TIF district. Length 5.6 minutes.
Why progressive-caucus aldermen voted for the mayor's tax increases; the budget director's flawed statement about TIFs robbing schools; and why the administration carved out a special tax for school construction. Length 4.9 minutes.
Why the Loop's perimeter basks in development; commercial property windfalls masked by neighborhood investment; and some industrial businesses get a concierge while others get the boot. Length 6 minutes.
Making a smaller mistake on the lake; Rahm's obsession with international visitors; and the administration reprises the racial strategy used for the Obama library. Length 6.5 minutes.
Chicago residents' deliberate lack of voting interest; whether political parties, rather than taxpayers, should bear the cost of primary elections; and why elected officials (and their families) take electoral losses personally. Length 5.5 minutes.
Why Mayor Emanuel might, in summer 2015, have wanted teachers to strike; whether Gov. Rauner wants CPS to go bankrupt, with the mayor's complicity; and why CTU leadership accepted a contract offer that some felt its members would surely reject. Length 5.5 minutes.
The effect of the police union's contract on curbing abusive officers; what to make of aldermen's assertion that the Emanuel administration misled them; and assessing the mayor's claim of what he'd do differently. Length 5.1 minutes.
How go-along taxpayers subsidize DIY taxpayers; why tax-averse building owners like vacancies; and paying for your share in Illinois' 7,000 units of government. Length 5.4 minutes.
Classroom chaos created by the 20th-day student count; the re-imagined Dyett High School as part of the anti-charter backlash; and whether Paul Vallas can take credit for bracing CPS finances. Length 5.9 minutes.
Whether Speaker Madigan has "seen the light" on school funding or simply continues to strategize; the "losing his mind" phase of the Daley administration; and the different pension holidays won by CPS. Length 6.2 minutes.
The validity--and relevance--of the DePaul/Marriott TIF subsidy origin story; prudent life spans for TIF districts; and the questionable benefits of having financial markets in Chicago. Length 5.8 minutes.
Whether Daley or Emanuel should bear greater blame for the city's financial mess; possible collusion between bond raters, investors, and city officials; and Chicago's best sources of new revenues. Length 5.9 minutes.
Examining the "more choice" argument for charter schools; charter schools deployed in poor neighborhoods till the gentry arrive; and whether teachers and principals self-censor, or would actually get hurt by speaking out. Length 5.8 minutes.
Why some candidates got support from both the Rahm-aligned PAC and Rahm-opposing unions; how the appointment of council committee chairs molds the rubber stamp; and the three elected aldermen most likely to resist the dark side. Length 5.6 minutes.
The heart of Chicago public schools' problem; what proponents of school closings have missed; and Rahm's non-stop political campaign. Length 6 minutes.
When the stampede for Rahm began; comparing de Blasio's first year in office to Emanuel's latest year; and the most pathetic contingent of voters in Chicago. Length 5.9 minutes.
Ald. Fioretti's real motivation for endorsing Rahm Emanuel; the validity of the "no plan" criticism of Chuy Garcia; and whether voters deserve the "lemming" label. Length 5.9 minutes.
What recourse citizens have when government won't release info; what police surveillance was actually looking for; and the "many sources" approach to requesting government records. Length 5.3 minutes.
How Mayor Emanuel's perceived financial gravitas might not work in a second term; why Emanuel has targeted some unions and not others; and whether candidates can have a serious budget discussion while ignoring tax-increment financing. Length 5.7 minutes.
Why the mayor opted to exert his personality in candidate forums but not in ads; Rahm's attributes that Obama decided he didn't need after all; and what Obama wants for Chicago. Length 5.8 minutes.
Ricky Hendon urges black voters to "flush the toilet" on some aldermen; which incumbents had ads funded by the Emanuel-tied PAC; and Rahm's 2-prong strategy: re-elect the compliant and defeat the defiant. Length 6 minutes.
Voters panic that they're about to do something stupid; the limited usefulness of mayoral "debates"; and how election campaigns resemble persistent citizen movements. Length 7 minutes.
How the investor-funded scheme demands that some kids not attend pre-K; fine-tuning delivery vs. assessing the value of pre-K; social impact bonds as the finance industry's instrument du jour. Length 5.2 minutes.
The justification for staying in school when you don't learn much; student testing as a result of the administration's obsession with metrics; and how candidates decide whether to challenge their opponents' nominating petitions. Length 5.9 minutes.
How citizens can control their government's risky financing schemes; choosing non-finance professionals to monitor government finance; and school-program funding becomes dependent on test scores. Length 5.4 minutes.
What actions Gov. Rauner might take that affect Chicago; how Rauner might grow the number of charter schools; and lax legislative oversight of school financialization schemes. Length 6.3 minutes.
The inconsistent outrage of the reform-minded against Todd Stroger; the Sun-Times Rauner endorsement and McKinney resignation as a low moment in Chicago journalism; and supporting an elected school board while opposing the election of judges. Length 5.6 minutes.
The merits of acting as the mayor's rubber stamp; one of the phoniest budget-saving devices in recent time; and parents who vote for Rahm having delusional issues. Length 5.9 minutes.
How the city decided which part of the school janitor workforce to privatize; the politics of SEIU union locals; and speculating on which city services Mayor Emanuel wouldn't privatize. Length 5.6 minutes.
How CPS's desire to maintain segregation might've kept at least one school open; Chicagoans--and especially preservationists--more reluctant than ever to speak on the record; and the false assumption about young creative types. Length 4.6 minutes.
Demographic shifts on the Southeast Side; what qualifies someone to hold the mayor's office; and "strong mayor" as code for "white mayor". Length 5.2 minutes.
Where and how Alderman Fioretti might run for city council; how much cushion candidates need on nominating petitions; and how Mayor Emanuel has inched to the left. Length 5.5 minutes.
How campaign financing reform allows the grotesque; the absence of free-market advocates from debate over corporate subsidies; and the legitimacy of tax cuts as a campaign issue. Length 17.6 minutes.
The issues about which principals as a group remained silent; when kissing mayoral butt has benefited principals; and what pre-election gifts the mayor might bestow to quell principal rebellion. Length 5.1 minutes.
Whether Chicago schools' resegregation reflects a national trend; using demographic tiers and magnet curricula to achieve school integration; and where integration quotas had success in Chicago. Length 5.2 minutes.
The public finally concedes the surcharge nature of tax-increment financing; diverting TIF slush to pensions or other priority obligations; and how a financial transaction tax might work. Length 4.7 minutes.
Why aldermen voted how they did on the McCormick-area hotel subsidy; why some private property in TIF districts generate no money for taxing bodies; and whether expiring TIF districts create a "back-door" tax. Length 5.6 minutes.
When private interests force TIF recipients to honor job guarantees; the digital manufacturing institute's "ultimate goal" of defense products; and how the institute announcement resembles Chicago's winning of the U.S. Olympics bid. Length 5.5 minutes.
Chicago municipal lobbyists' strategies in the state legislature; holding candidates accountable post-election; and incumbents accusing challengers of betraying ideals that they themselves betray. Length 5.5 minutes.
Compromise with the mayor as an exercise in imagination; "independent" aldermen's familiar excuse for voting with the mayor; and how aldermen game the rules to bury insurgent motions. Length 4.9 minutes.
UNO's multiple face-saving tactics; the level of scrutiny the public has of neighborhood vs. charter schools; and how government funds charter schools in Chicago. Length 5.3 minutes.
Why aldermen representing black wards--and others--voted for an elected school board; how Lincoln Elementary parents engaged in "callocracy"; and how moving special programs out of Lincoln Elementary could solve overcrowding. Length 5.3 minutes.
The wounding of Ald. Pawar; the myth of mayoral retribution; and the best tactic when one's ordinance gets buried. Length 5.1 minutes.
When an entity on public land must pay property taxes; why the city of Chicago is suing its own park district; and how future depositions of Richard M. Daley might go. Length 5.3 minutes.
An excerpt from Dave and Ben's interview from Nov. 10, 2011, which illuminates the city's budget process--including both visible and invisible aspects. Length 5.4 minutes.
When Chicago's "strong city council" model of government has actually performed as such; Richard M. Daley's populist attitude toward neighborhoods; and the one thing that can mean Emanuel's defeat in 2015. Length 5.1 minutes.
Charter schools' responses to FOIA requests; the potential scandal behind charter-school admissions; and whether charter schools have wait lists--or vacancies. Length 5 minutes.
Why continue to beat the drum on the McCormick-arena development; raising a TIF district's "freeze" level after projects complete; and front-end vs. back-end TIF district reforms. Length 5.2 minutes.
The essence of TIF gerrymandering: accentuate the "blight;" city council okays the taking of private property but with no funding; and what it would take to move the landmark Rees House. Length 5.5 minutes.
The relative graciousness of Mayor Richard M. Daley; the successful promotion of brand Rahm; and Mayor Emanuel's payback to the Whittier protestors. Length 5.5 minutes.
The three problems with Chicago public-school funding; how the new per-pupil funding scheme results in less-experienced teachers; and the mayor using school principals as propaganda show ponies. Length 4.5 minutes.
Where, exactly, the city might expand existing Englewood TIF districts; why Tea Party members should rush to Englewood; and whether and how the administration drives poor blacks from Chicago. Length 4.9 minutes.
The collective amnesia of civic Chicago about past fiscal policy; how to uncover the actual amount of the city's TIF surplus; and county clerk Orr's TIF activism. Length 5.7 minutes.
The intended investment payoff of tax-increment financing; why CPS would misrepresent property-tax increase caps; and why it makes sense for the Vienna Beef plant to move. Length 4.8 minutes.
What motivated the administration to issue its plan; the PR plan claims investment, belied by the capital plan; and why CPS's tax levy has increased while it cuts its budget. Length 5.5 minutes.
Who really pulls the mayor's strings; why the CTU gave up its former practice of cutting a deal with the administration; and where some of the best reporting in Chicago currently comes from. Length 5.5 minutes.
Why other journalists don't report on the city's contradictory stance; the mayor's clear message that investors can still buy city assets; and the fallacy that Chicago will save on future meter true-up costs. Length 5.4 minutes.
How the General Assembly's "ladies of the lake" resisted pork; the mayor's interference in the free market of property development; and who owns the property on the land where the city wants to build an arena. Length 5.2 minutes.
How an almost-dead TIF district can rob from its younger neighbor; what makes the arena/hotel plan a tax-losing proposition; and Mayor Daley's last-minute raid on the area's TIF funds. Length 5.2 minutes.
CPS's statutory obligation to retain policy-related records; whether the Emanuel or the Daley administration responded better to records requests; and the chances of aldermanic efforts to strengthen the inspector general. Length 5.7 minutes.
How one might get one's kids into the Lab School; why Lab teachers didn't join the Chicago Teachers Union; and whether Mayor Emanuel and others involved in school policy should explain why their kids don't attend public school. Length 5 minutes.
How Lincoln Park H.S.'s diverse set of programs created an integrated student body; parents' perception of the International Baccalaureate "brand"; and when the mayor chooses to supercede a contract. Length 11.9 minutes.
The multiple freebies and discounts the Sox organization gets while using the ballpark; the nobility of rainmaker Gov. Thompson; and whether the White Sox could survive financially without taxpayer subsidies. Length 14 minutes.
Mayor Bilandic's disregard for black voters; a clear contrast in Mayor Emanuel's treatment of black and white constituencies; and citizens' attitudes about government polices based on their distance from the destructive impact. Length 15.8 minutes.
How a crowded school with low-income students can perform well; how the administration has transformed its school-closing message; and who closing schools evolved from decades-old segregation. Length 14.1 minutes.
Overcrowding at the city's remaining mental health clinics; the worst time to remove mental health services for Chicago's kids; and how aldermen cling to a greater power. Length 15.5 minutes.
At what age adults should let kids read violently or sexually explicit books; CPS curriculum professionals undermined by CPS administrators; and CPS's previous book purge. Length 16.5 minutes.
The fact or fiction of quorums in City Council committees; the lack of enlightened debate before the council enacts laws; and the repeated fall of so-called reform candidates for City Council. Length 19.8 minutes.
Taking advantage of the opportunity arising from falling enrollment; the city's education response to changing demographics; and how aldermen who talk tough on school closings could really cause problems for the mayor. Length 16.2 minutes.
Why the public should allow taxing bodies to increase their tax take each year; checking Ald. O'Connor's argument about the benefit of tax-increment financing to the board of education budget; and the public school system as an investor in TIF. Length 15.6 minutes.
How aldermen might thwart efforts to bury their legislation in the rules committee; why the powerful, seemingly in opposition, support each other; and aldermen who have reserved their check on mayoral power for Chicago's only elected black mayor. Length 11.3 minutes.
Why the public should care any more about the issue of a longer school day; administering city government by press release and press conference; and getting information from government more easily than via FOIA requests. Length 13.5 minutes.
The narrative that Rahm Emanuel perpetuates; the impact of Emanuel's aspirations on how Chicago government operates; and Chicago's brief, four-year experiment with democracy. Length 12 minutes.
Renaissance 2010 as the basis for charter schools in poor neighborhoods; the main reasons for the depopulation of public schools; and who doesn't send their kids to charters. Length 16.8 minutes.
What might have undermined a potential 2007 JJJ mayoral campaign; how constituents exercise authority over elected officials who don't show up for work; and term limits vs. truly alternative candidates. Length 15.3 minutes.
What constitutes a selective enrollment school; what the old Jones Commercial High School provided that no CPS school does today; and the long-term wisdom of selling off school property. Length 11.8 minutes.
An unexpected rebuttal to Mayor Emanuel; the proposed state legislation to tax financial transactions and where it went; and an industry dedicated to the elimination of jobs. Length 10.3 minutes.
The disparity in availability of charter vs. neighborhood school financial data; why CPS finally put payroll information on-line; and the downside of Freedom of Information Act requests. Length 8.5 minutes.
What, exactly, CivicLab will reveal about tax-increment financing districts; why the printed Cook County property tax bill doesn't include tax info available on the county's Web site; and how tax-increment financing raises your taxes even if you don't live in a TIF district. Length 9.3 minutes.
New lows in veracity in the age of Rahm; adding transit and restricting cars as part of private land development; and the difference between Prentice Hospital and Wolf Point. Length 17.8 minutes.
What happened to the Emanuel administration's attempt to cut a deal with Ald. Sawyer; the neighborhoods in which the mayor feels most wary of political opposition; and how we teach critical thinking about democracy. Length 12.1 minutes.
Where United's return of taxpayer subsidy will go; the story behind the $34 million TIF "return" of 2011; and Mayor Harold Washington, the father of Chicago TIF. Length 11.9 minutes.
What happens when black aldermen's constituents rebel; possible effects of the city council holding hearings on privatization deals; and the best strategy for the water-billing workers' union. Length 15.3 minutes.
Mayor Daley's legacy of public budget meetings carried on by progressive aldermen; how and why ward remapping disposes of certain aldermen; and why aldermen should vote against the mayor's proposed 2013 budget, and who might. Length 15.8 minutes.
The expectation that kindergarten will teach students to read; why Illinois didn't receive federal Race to the Top funds; and Diane Ravitch's historical perspective of school performance. Length 14.5 minutes.
Jesse White's staggering miscalculations around legislative appointments; how poorly the West Side's political leaders serve it; and comparing Rep. Smith to former Gov. Blagojevich. Length 14.9 minutes.
Standardized testing as a barometer of what a student needs to know; whether unionization factors into student performance; and whether teacher tenure actually exists. Length 11.1 minutes.
The mistake of separating teachers from the union representing them; the Chicago Teachers Union ripe for criticism; and how the board of education has broken contractual agreements. Length 13.5 minutes.
How at-home investigators can analyze Chicago Public Schools payroll; one of the phoniest issues in the education debate; and why South Side teachers might not want to end the strike. Length 15.2 minutes.
The possible collusion between former Pres. Bush and former Mayor Daley; the normalization of Alderman Joe Moore; and predictions on whether Chicago teachers will strike. Length 16 minutes.
The surprising requirements of state law for sex education; when not to blame voters for bad election results; and the People's Rights Amendment. Length 11.9 minutes.
A rundown of the members of the Commission on Chicago Landmarks; the most rubber-stamp-like body in city government; and the public expense for saving Prentice. Length 15.2 minutes.
The two forms of justice; why prosecutors stay tight-lipped; and what made this a hard story to write. Length 9.5 minutes.
Why the mayor controls who chairs city council committees; Ben's defense of Alderman Moore; and an elected school board--a bad idea? Length 13.8 minutes.
Why property taxes go up when property values go down; how taxing bodies come up with the tax levy; and the different ways of structuring a tax-increment financing deal. Length 10.3 minutes.
Whether Chicago police will start ticketing more white marijuana users; what'll come next in Mick and Ben's marijuana-law reporting; and the schizophrenia of American marijuana laws. Length 6 minutes.
The game of comparing schools via test scores; the Democratic Party's drift toward charter schools; and why Mayor Emanuel wants a teachers' strike. Length 10.9 minutes.
When Mayor Emanuel acts in opposition to his conservative leanings; whether city officials' planning conversations should remain confidential; and the mysterious CME Group meeting. Length 12.5 minutes.
What might've motivated the Emanuel administration to make the TIF video; how the administration has done on meeting the goals identified by the mayor's TIF task force; and Ben's rebuttal video. Length 11.8 minutes.
Whether the city still doesn't check on the jobs pledges of TIF-fund recipients; what sort of central business district investments make the most sense; and the surprising bastions of unionism. Length 14.4 minutes.
Why border-situated land owners can have their land transferred to a suburb; whether landfills necessarily make for obnoxious neighbors; and Mayor Emanuel's calculus. Length 9.4 minutes.
Who voted against the mayor's proposed infrastructure trust and why; why the early infrastructure trust investors might have gotten involved; and how the city council might end up voting on certain unique infrastructure deals. Length 12.4 minutes.
Whether the proposed infrastructure trust must actually comply with Freedom of Information Act regulations; how the trust resembles other mayoral proposals; and why some aldermen seem to have rebelled. Length 12.4 minutes.
What Mayor Emanuel knows about the school system or, for that matter, the city; why the mayor won't back down regarding a one-size-fits-all longer school day; and how Chicago Public Schools would find the funding for a longer school day. Length 7.7 minutes.
A state legislative district primer; the drama behind the mayor's endorsement in the 39th state rep district; and Ben's picks in the state Supreme Court primary. Length 10 minutes.
How local government has already lost money on the NATO summit; a look at an older, and maybe better, form of Chicago school board; and a way to decrease reliance on property taxes. Length 8.1 minutes.
How Ben and Mick ended up at a UNO school; why charters don't pay their teachers more; and why charters might reject the "public school" label. Length 5.2 minutes.
The appropriateness of World Business Chicago controlling a major city event; distinguishing WBC from a chamber of commerce; and whether the city council's revocation of its contract-approval power goes beyond the NATO/G8 summit. Length 6.2 minutes.
Why librarians have to work six days per week; whether library cuts really have to do with finance; and why Mary Dempsey has no peer in the Emanuel administration. Length 9.5 minutes.
Origin of the mythology around CME Group's tax-burden claim; the possible fairness of CME Group's existing income taxes; and trying to calculate the economic benefit per job. Length 9.5 minutes.
How this article differs from much of what Ben writes; how Mayor Emanuel deals with reporters; and contrasting Rahm Emanuel and Richard M. daley. Length 6.3 minutes.
The awards that didn't make the cut; how politics differs from government; and the benefits of having a backbone vis a vis Ald. Sposato's approval of a zoning change for a planned charter school. Length 9.9 minutes.
Veteran aldermen who might not have voted for the mayor's budget proposal; what influenced the "turned" aldermen; and whether term limits' time has come. Length 9.6 minutes.
A list of "blighted" suburbs that have TIF districts; defining the model TIF subsidy; and when letting property run down has more value than keeping it up. Length 10.6 minutes.
Comparing Mayor Emanuel's control of the marijuana issue with Mayor Daley's control of a smoking ban; Ben predicts the future of marijuana laws; and problems with the Sun-Times' recent series on marijuana. Length 8.3 minutes.
How Ben justifies a comparison of Wilmette and Rogers Park; how Chicago could invest more in libraries, rather than cut their budget; and a redundant grocery store in Greektown. Length 9 minutes.
Deficiencies of Chicago Public Schools' new report card on school performance; when Ben acted a cheerleader for charter schools; and panicked parents gaming the selective enrollment process. Length 9.5 minutes.
A beginner's guide to the city's budget document; the myth that city government can continue without raising fees and taxes; and the king of deceptive budgeting. Length 8.5 minutes.
Origins of black patronage at Chicago Public Schools HQ; when new clout replaces old clout; and what causes the electorate to rise up. Length 8.2 minutes.
The first step for true reform of the city's budget process; the bait-and-switch game of raiding TIF reserves; and why TIF works well as a subject for an Occupy Chicago speech. Length 6.5 minutes.
What Mayor Emanuel's decision to send his kids to a private school says; recognizing students' developmental disparities as "making excuses" for public schools; and what makes a great Chicago public school. Length 10.2 minutes.
Why Mayor Emanuel's tax-increment financing reform doesn't constitute reform; Congressman Quigley's disappointing support of Emanuel's reform; and why former Mayor Daley had a more democratic approach to public input. Length 8.9 minutes.
A review of government subsidies to Chicago's major-league sports teams; the contradiction inherent in removing, then replacing, property-tax revenues for public schools; and how the proposed longer school day results in a teacher pay cut. Length 6.3 minutes.
Whether Chicago Public Schools' do-not-hire practices have changed under Supt. Brizard; how to change CPS's illogical policies; and how do-not-hire resembles tax-increment financing. Length 5.1 minutes.
Removing services for the poor as a gentrifying force; why TIF district creators exclude gentrifying areas; and getting beyond the fiction that TIF doesn't divert revenues from Chicagoland's taxing bodies. Length 10 minutes.
Whether teachers' 75 percent minimum membership requirement for a strike vote hobbles their union; holding students accountable for their poor performance; and teacher accountability as a bandage on society's economic disparities. Length 8.5 minutes.
Whether voters want a strong mayor--for other people; summer as a voter aphrodisiac; and the mayor as an expert in spectacle. Length 6.7 minutes.
The double standard that marijuana laws reinforce; making the police superintendent sound smart; and the clever composition ability of police officers. Length 5.5 minutes.
What lies behind the motive to get rid of teachers; how Chicago can recruit better teachers in the face of "do not hire" designations and pay cuts; and how the free market encourages teachers to leave Chicago. Length 9.5 minutes.
The difference between a tax-increment financing district's budget and the amount of tax dollars it diverts; whether the park district could more easily implement a capital project via regular budgeting or tax-increment financing; and the last major elected official to call a corporation's relocation bluff. Length 9.3 minutes.
How Chicago Public Schools handle the re-applications of teachers in turnaround schools; the link between turnaround schools and cutting well-paid teachers; and expulsion: a teaching tool, or a convenient way to boost performance scores? Length 9.7 minutes.
How public school students get into particular high schools; why the state's board didn't enforce the law; and the effect on union organizing of federal versus state jurisdiction. Length 6.5 minutes.
What didn't make it into the timeline; the evidence for the manipulation of Carol Moseley Braun; and the list of candidates who might've beat Mayor Daley. Length 6.7 minutes.
The 43rd-27th ward boundary gerrymandered for racial purity; how the city changes property zoning; and why Mayor Emanuel apparently has immediate control of the City Council. Length 10.5 minutes.
Why using tax-increment financing to build new schools works against the school system's interests; whether tax-increment financing affects where and when to build new schools; and imagining an elected school board. Length 8.3 minutes.
Alternatives to tax-increment financing of well-endowed institutions; whether the city should spend TIF money on both the relocation of Finkl Steel and the redevelopment of its old site; and digging into increased funding of the Garfield Park TIF district. Length 9.3 minutes.
Why charter schools' ability to get rid of troublesome kids invalidates comparisons with non-charters; whether non-charters should have this same ability; and what level of unionization signals the demise of charters in Chicago. Length 8.5 minutes.
The different dynamics of black and Hispanic migration into wards; how moderating a candidate debate differs from interviewing candidates; and Ald. Stone's persistent denial of ward gerrymandering. Length 8.4 minutes.
Why Ben moderates aldermanic candidate debates; how ranked-choice voting (RCV) works; and whether Chicago could use RCV in municipal elections. Length 7.9 minutes.
The difference between magnet, charter, and selective-enrollment schools; how state senator Steans' bill essentially deregulates charter schools; and Rahm Emanuel's crush on New York City's education model. Length 8.8 minutes.
Why people outside the 5th Illinois senate district should care about Rickey Hendon; the argument for office-holders like Hendon staying in office; and who really will decide on Hendon's successor. Length 9.9 minutes.
What inspires Chicagoans to want to learn about their government; the mayoral voting habits of white people; and the subconscious guilt of white voters. Length 8.9 minutes.
A look into the back rooms where aldermen negotiate the remaps of wards; Mayor Emanuel's participation in ward remapping; and the history of and need for supermajority wards. Length 10 minutes.
A short history of near-West-Side ward remapping; what Ben would have written about Rahm Emanuel before the election; and why Ben wants voters to stop whining. Length 8.1 minutes.
Which takes more effort: informing candidates about outstanding debts, or contesting their eligibility; whether we should let deadbeats and scofflaws run for public office; and whether overdue library books can keep you off the ballot. Length 7.8 minutes.
Who Rahm Emanuel talked out of running for mayor; the relationship between Miguel del Valle and Luis Gutierrez; and how del Valle has responded to Daley administration corruption. Length 10 minutes.
Gery Chico's single greatest success with public schools; how Chicago's elimination of social promotion came back to haunt Chico; and whether the Reader's coverage of mayoral campaigns has changed. Length 8.8 minutes.
How the Chicago Board of Elections originally determined the number of nominating signatures needed; what nominating-signature system Ben favors; and whether Rahm Emanuel has "machine" backing. Length 8.2 minutes.
Tax-increment financing's cloak of invisibility; how developers justify public subsidies; and how a proposed affordable-housing ordinance could rob funding from public schools. Length 8.9 minutes.
How Cook County's property tax system pacifies the public; who or what should carry the cost of government; and which Illinois party has the right idea about taxes. Length 6.1 minutes.
How TIF subsidies attract development investors; whether a neighborhood's regular infrastructure upkeep depends on its inclusion in a TIF district; and a teaser for next week. Length 7.8 minutes.
How local school councils came about; why Mayor Daley eviscerated local school control; and what happens when public schools lack clout. Length 9 minutes.
The effect of polls on voter behavior; how we might finally get good elected officials; and those who find elections too odious or corrupt to vote. Length 8.7 minutes.
How Chicagoans use county government; how formerly obscure county commissioners became visible; and how county reformers helped distract from the real power abusers. Length 9.9 minutes.
How to remedy the over-reliance on property taxes; an intriguing proposal for term limits; and votes as personal statements about the system. Length 8.5 minutes.
Whether Mayor Daley ever appeared in the Gay Pride parade; what will really determine whether Rahm Emanuel can run for mayor; and what the Rahm haters want. Length 8.7 minutes.
How Mike Quigley opened the floodgates to scrutiny of tax-increment financing; how Quigley turned mayoral irritation into electoral success; and Mayor Daley's final gift to Chicago. Length 5.8 minutes.
Dave and Ben discuss their co-written article on the secret "do not hire" classification of layed-off Chicago public school teachers. Length 10.1 minutes.
Why Ben's not afraid of mayoral retribution; which candidate has the most similarity to Daley; and when Ben will write about the Daley legacy. Length 9 minutes.
Why the Chicago Public Schools administration would authorize a contract violation; how charter schools might circumvent anti-patronage protections; and who actually makes decisions to dismiss teachers. Length 8.1 minutes.
Whether the Daley administration's really lied about tax-increment financing; why state Rep. John Fritchey really wants the city to give up TIF reserves; and the limits of cynicism. Length 7.4 minutes.
The effects of crime cameras on policing; whether police officers should beat up bad guys; and respect versus fear of the police. Length 7 minutes.
What fundamental rights private operators of public land can deny the public; appropriate uses of park space versus leased space; and restrictions that a reasonable person might expect. Length 5.6 minutes.
What Mick Dumke brought to the Reader and Joravsky's articles; the future of government reporting at the Reader post-Dumke; and a look at the Chicago News Cooperative's reporting. Length 7.9 minutes.
Why the inspector general audited tax-increment financing; the fact of Millennium Park's non-budget development; and why aldermen think the IG shouldn't investigate TIF. Length 8.5 minutes.
Whether teachers and students should sacrifice for administrative largesse; how Mayor Daley helps private firms compete with public schools for public dollars; and what it takes to get the public's attention. Length 8.1 minutes.
Ben Joravsky reflects on the tenure and departure of Alison True, the recently-fired editor of the Chicago Reader. Length 8.7 minutes.
The father of tax-increment financing activism; the myth of TIF complexity; and the financial penalty for a school system that doesn't divert money to TIF districts. Length 7.1 minutes.
Whether unions should focus on company policy, worker benefits, or both; the Chicago Teachers Union's ignorance of how the city raises and spends public dollars; and a fledgling movement to get the Chicago Public Schools to withdraw from tax-increment financing. Length 8.4 minutes.
When schools lower property values; the capitalization of new schools--then vs. now; and why schools have ended up in parks. Length 6.7 minutes.
How to get the city to publish public information; the myth of the super-hero teacher; and teachers as whistleblowers. Length 6.9 minutes.
Tax-increment financing's fundamental flaw, and how to fix it; Block 37--the poster child for the original TIF model; and the Board of Ed's legacy of stealing from schoolchildren. Length 8.5 minutes.
The typical Chicagoan's phases of TIF understanding; Ben outlines an unlikely TIF debate; and city officials who believe that Chicagoans don't want to know the true cost of government. Length 8.6 minutes.
Whether candidates who don't run in a primary should have a harder time running in the general election; the limited focus of the liberal wing of Mayor Daley's party; and whether Forrest Claypool and his ilk really intend reform. Length 7.5 minutes.
The tenuous connection between Chicago Public School positions, titles, and business cards; putting words into the CPS spokeperson's mouth; and how the CPS budget resembles the city's reporting on TIF districts. Length 8.3 minutes.
Whether Chicago Public Schools staff cuts appear in its budget; the importance of honesty in budget-making; and what Chicago leaders respond to. Length 6.7 minutes.
How state Rep. Debra Mell resembles former Pres. Reagan; how the Incumbent Alderman Protection Act could lock up all the nominators in a district; and why the state eliminated Chicago mayoral primaries. Length 6.9 minutes.
Willfull ignorance of entrenched poverty--worse than misleading; corruption without salvation; and other mayors' Daley-envy. Length 6.4 minutes.
How the University of Chicago inadvertently created smart political tacticians; Loyola's preposterous development proposals; and the natural relationship between developers and universities. Length 7.8 minutes.
The Board of Education's tradition of getting back to reporters; where to bury patronage workers at Chicago Public Schools; and the need for a central-office administration. Length 6.7 minutes.
How much tax revenue the city expects the Galewood/Armitage TIF District to take in; the future solvency of the city's entire TIF program; and Ald. Carothers: just one more rubber stamp? Length 7.1 minutes.
The fears whites had about Harold Washington's mayoralty; the recent primary's county-board candidates "unthinkable" in the '80s and '90s; and Quinn the maverick versus Hynes the mob-runner. Length 9.6 minutes.
When office-holders become reformers; how reading about government operations resembles eating your veggies; and the kind of outsider that can take on Daley and Madigan. Length 7.3 minutes.
The scripting of Joint Board of Review meetings; one the greatest public-policy debacles of the decade; and how Ben swallowed his objections to Toni Preckwinkle. Length 8.8 minutes.
How County Assessor Houlihan orchestrated the homeowners' exemption to property taxes; the city's "drain argument" to justify tax-increment financing; and why city officials won't debate Ben on the radio. Length 9.4 minutes.
How the Independent Voters of Illinois organization gets its message out; the influence of candidate endorsements; and how the Democratic Party could take over Green Party candidacies. Length 7.1 minutes.
Why the Chicago Board of Elections considers the nominating process fair; the nature of political influence on the Board of Elections; and whether the nominating process holds challengers to a higher standard. Length 8 minutes.
How to access the City Council's live video stream; what made Ald. Allen an outspoken critic; and the illusion of Mayor Daley's power over aldermen. Length 9 minutes.
When logic fails in figuring how the city apportions TIF revenues; the three factors blinding South- and West-Side aldermen; and how City Council members get the bum's rush on fiscal votes. Length 9.3 minutes.
Michael Scott as divine intervention; Chicago's unique obstacles to kids getting into neighborhood schools; and, politically, the most important institution for blacks on the West and South Sides. Length 8 minutes.
Why Oak Park Senator Harmon might carry water for Mayor Daley; when well-meaning public advocates go over to the TIF dark side; and why the county treasurer can't implement the county clerk's TIF-o-meter. Length 6 minutes.
Unpacking a sample property-tax bill; how Cook County overtaxes its suburban residents to pay Chicago; and Chicago newspapers start reporting the tax-increase aspect of tax-increment financing. Length 7.3 minutes.
A profile of the Southeast Side; whether taxes should fund property buy-outs; and helping communities economically by closing businesses. Length 8.6 minutes.
What the "TIF sunshine" ordinance leaves in the dark; how Chicago might (or not) make money on its United Airlines subsidy; and the tax benefits of property negligence. Length 10.2 minutes.
Whether Cook County property-taxpayers need the Board of Review; how many signatures you need to get on a ballot; and how, if the Greens become viable in Illinois, the Dems and Reps will react. Length 9.2 minutes.
The average Joe leading the leaders; how Michelle Malkin showed up; and, corporations: great job, Mayor Daley! Length 8 minutes.
Ben's alienation by institutional Chicago; the macho thing that aldermen have goin' on; and when Chicagoans will wake up to the fact of one-man rule. Length 6.7 minutes.
The glue that holds patronage together; the Jose Conseco story; and Rod Blagojevich: the next Jerry Springer. Length 7.1 minutes.
Why you didn't see or hear in-depth coverage of the Stewardship Report; how civic leaders criticize Mayor Daley; and to what financial disclosure standards we should hold Chicago 2016. Length 9.5 minutes.
Why city officials constantly restate the effects of tax-increment financing; calculating the impact of Block 37 development; and what Reader staff learned from their new owners. Length 7.3 minutes.
Behind the gerrymandering of the 26th Ward; how committeemen used to run the wards; and how zoning committees can protect democracy. Length 8.2 minutes.
Whether all U.S. taxpayers want to pay for Olympics in Chicago; aldermen's mass hysteria in supporting caps on Olympics costs; and how aldermen want it both ways when taking a stand on the Olympics. Length 8.2 minutes.
Mayor Washington's wisdom in creating the Central Loop TIF district; the difference in TIF tactics between Mayors Washington and Daley; and two big payouts to United Airlines. Length 6.3 minutes.
The absurd position of preservationists; the inevitability of a public handout to Olympic Village developers; and how total demolition of Michael Reese Hospital limits development options. Length 7.1 minutes.
North Siders as powerless as South Siders; how the Olympics movement resembles the blizzard of '79; and Olympics planning: an exercise in cynicism? Length 7.5 minutes.
The kinds of deals that the Chicago Park District has with on-premises restaurants; whether Cook County judges weigh clout in their decisions; and how much the mob influences city government. Length 9.2 minutes.
How to get ordinary humans to read about complicated issues; whether citizens should trust the city to spend a billion dollars; and why 14th-Ward residents don't deserve an alderman. Length 7.4 minutes.
What Republicans used to stand for; why anyone would bother to run as a Republican; and the mystery of Ald. Brian Doherty. Length 5.4 minutes.
From where, exactly, Olympics revenues would come; why an independent civic organization shouldn't analyze Chicago's Olympics budget; and the deafening silence from civic Chicago. Length 6.2 minutes.
Who enforces the city's procurement rules; parking meters on steroids; and privatization by cocktail party. Length 9.8 minutes.
Why it's not hard to fight the Olympics; what you should never forget about the Olympics; and Chicago's pre-existing Olympic aquatic center. Length 5.3 minutes.
An aspect of tax-increment financing that might rouse the citizenry from its slumber; why Chicago's newspapers don't report on TIF districts; and why renters should care about property taxes. Length 7.8 minutes.
Whether privatization in the abstract has any merit; deconstructing the ways to value parking meters; and giving meter-poor neighborhoods their share. Length 8.3 minutes.
Whether panic peddling typically occurs in TIF districts; the fundamentals of eminent domain; and how the city will ruin the North Pullman TIF district. Length 8.3 minutes.
Why Jesse Jackson Jr. Photoshopped his wife; why Ben loves Alderman Bob Fioretti; and the roll call of somewhat-independent aldermen. Length 8.6 minutes.
How the Reader of olden times handled letter writers; whether the Reader came late to the story; and when Chicagoans have epiphanies about their government. Length 7.2 minutes.
What percentage of revenue the city should spend on parking operations; what info the city should disclose about bidders for city concessions; and how aldermen have lost an urban-planning tool. Length 8.2 minutes.
How the Tribune and Sun-Times ignore their own reporting; what upsets the sheep; and making an honest assessment of the city's finances. Length 9.4 minutes.
The three ways to end corporate relocation subsidies; Ben's favorite way; and start-up jobs instead of stolen jobs. Length 9.9 minutes.
A tax increment financing refresher; cities caught up in the notion of "the deal;" and Chicago's mini-version of the federal bailout. Length 9.3 minutes.
Winning the quinella of revenue loss; how one becomes a "chosen" developer; and when yelling at the Community Development Commission works. Length 8.6 minutes.
If Todd Stroger led the push for the Olympics; whether Mayor Daley controls the county's share of federal stimulus dollars; and the price of peace: patronage. Length 7.8 minutes.
The one good thing in the city's Olympics bid; whether real-estate development drives the desire for Olympics; and how the city might secretly subsidize the Olympic Village. Length 8.3 minutes.
Earmarks: copious or corrupting; pros and cons of minority districts; and the 5th congressional district as an evolutionary indicator. Length 9.6 minutes.
Defining progressive vs. independent officials; whether aldermen should both legislate and provide constituent services; and the mayor loses his mind. Length 9.2 minutes.
The definition of patronage (abused and not); how the Hispanic Democratic Organization annihilated Hispanic independence; and Chicagoans: held under psychological bondage? Length 8.2 minutes.
How much police and firefighters at Midway will really cost; why the city has tried to get rid of debt; and, Mayor Daley: privatization leader? Length 7.6 minutes.
How slatemaking works; Ben's ideal Congressperson; and why Chicago Congresspersons stay out of Chicago's governmental problems. Length 9.3 minutes.
What prosecutions the Illinois attorney general could do but doesn't; how Burris might have paid to play; and when ethics trump laws. Length 9.1 minutes.
Whether city managers monitor TIF agreements; where your TIF-sequestered tax dollars actually go; and why Chicago can't suddenly end TIF districts. Length 9.5 minutes.
The evolution of Ben's TIF explanation; why more Chicagoans don't sue to challenge TIFs; and why Gov. Blagojevich's transgressions don't hold a candle to those of Chicago government. Length 7 minutes.
What Barack Obama's appointment of Lawrence Summers says about his fiscal policy; how Chicago's economy resembles that of Russia; and, will Obama control his lieutenants or vice versa? Length 8.6 minutes.
The difference between a voting plurality and majority; why a Green might succeed Rahm Emanuel; and how the U.S. Constitution lets someone from Cairo represent Chicago. Length 5.3 minutes.
How the U of C takes its cue from City Hall; how the Hyde Park referendum fight used "the Chicago way;" and how reactions to the referendum resemble attitudes about Chicago getting the Olympics. Length 7.4 minutes.
The only time a politician has outgrown Mayor Daley; Ben's therapy for power-fixated Chicagoans; and why Obama won't can U.S. Attorney Patrick Fitzgerald. Length 4.6 minutes.
The future of the Reader's print edition; TIF districts as borrowing enablers; and incentives for aldermanic subservience--drying up? Length 8.1 minutes.
How zoning protects the citizenry; rezoning vs. variances; and a look at the members of the Zoning Board of Appeals. Length 9.9 minutes.
Ben's NYC envy; whether term-limited office-holders would've leased Midway; and when people started making careers out of public office. Length 7.6 minutes.
What makes 99 a magic number; the power (or not) of organized labor in Chicago; and why city workers at Midway whose jobs get privatized might stay employed. Length 7.9 minutes.
How and why you might become a Constitutional Convention delegate; why you might wanna vote for the Con-Con; and Shakman's legacy. Length 10.1 minutes.
The firefighter rebellion; dissecting the TIF take; and a great idea for county clerk David Orr. Length 7.5 minutes.
Why Chicago has local school councils; how control of public schools became re-centralized; and your choice: democracy or oligarchy. Length 8.8 minutes.
A re-do on Rep. Skip Saviano; the subway station you'll never see; and pole-vaulting under Block 37. Length 6.6 minutes.
What, exactly, the Chicago Plan Commission approves; Inside Chicago Government's plan for plan commissioners' redemption; and Ben's secret way for residents to present their cases. Length 9.9 minutes.
Why the governor won't mess with TIFs; why Chicago students can't compete; and how Chicago Public Schools will lose $1.7 billion. Length 8.9 minutes.
When off-the-books tax revenues exceed on-the-books revenues; the city's corporate budget as a distraction from its other budgets; and why Ald. Tom Allen bears watching. Length 9.1 minutes.
The vulnerability of park permit holders; how Ben avoids virtual censorship; and why Ben sleeps well at night. Length 6.5 minutes.
For residents who might want to take the City of Chicago to court over improperly financed development, Ben and Inside Chicago Government walk thru a list of potentially suit-winning properties. Length 10.1 minutes.
How public schools deprive the public of public space; why the Park District would violate its vendor policy; and how to have healthy debate in your ward. Length 7.8 minutes.
How the owners of Michael Reese Hospital snagged a sweet selling spot; the TIF two-fer; and Government Property Purchasing 101. Length 8.1 minutes.
The astounding depth of Olympics opposition; the Olympics as fuel for a real-estate boom; and the Olympic development that'll happen regardless of the Olympics. Length 7.1 minutes.
Chicagoans' immunity from trespassing in the Dead Zone; how Mayor Daley undercut Bensenville residents' clout in the state legislature; and the demise of some of DuPage County's most venerable affordable housing. Length 9 minutes.
Why Mayor Daley needed more than a slim majority vote on the Children's Museum; whether Ben needlessly dramatizes; and astounding aldermen denials. Length 9.4 minutes.
Whether Obama needs Mayor Daley to win Chicago; the mayor's greater strength--patronage army or voter apathy; and corruption as a tourist attraction. Length 8 minutes.
Ben's confession and pledge; the fundamental Olympics question for Chicagoans; and how corporate leaders committed themselves to a lie. Length 8.5 minutes.
Public-building development demystified; another way to keep public schools under control; and how alderman sign away their power. Length 8.2 minutes.
The selective sight of lakefront protectionists; preparing for indictment of the mayor; and Bush's payback to the Daleys. Length 10 minutes.
Better soccer-field sites than Lincoln Park; why the end doesn't justify the means; and the latest on residents' litigation. Length 9.3 minutes.
Background on a mayoral ally; Ben's great disappointment with bicycling advocates; and whether the press should count student murders. Length 7.1 minutes.
The single dumbest move the Park District has made; moving the Bears out of Soldier Field; and the recipe for rubber stamps. Length 7.2 minutes.
How citizens become robots; how a non-robot sees his role; and, can advisory councils survive a purge? Length 8.7 minutes.
The wealthy--our feeble hope; why you should embrace entitlement; and why the ward map looks like a jigsaw puzzle. Length 9 minutes.
Daley and Thompson's negotiations hidden in plain sight; if the public screams, the Board of Ed did good; and a look inside the bureaucratic mind. Length 8.3 minutes.
The plan that doesn't plan; a TIF reform that Ben actually likes; and, did the alderman deserve a scolding? Length 8.8 minutes.
Winners of the Chicago citizenship award; how voting beats recycling; and Chicago elections--the new basketball? Length 8.7 minutes.
The Block 37 debacle dissected; bonds better for building; and Alderman Ben and Alderman Dave's lesson in democracy. Length 9.7 minutes.
The roll call of abused schools; why city government hides how much revenue it needs; and Ben's perverse delight in reporting. Length 9.7 minutes.
What the Board of Review does; and conflict of interest everywhere you look. Length 4.1 minutes.
What Ben wants in a state's attorney; who not to vote for; and the criteria by which to judge a real reformer. Length 4 minutes.
Where to find the real dirt on candidates; whether back-room drama trumps voting records; and the big Chicago issue that candidates won't face. Length 9.3 minutes.
Why you don't need a TIF primer; how West-Side residents discovered a city slush fund; and why the city won't contribute more to the CTA. Length 9.3 minutes.
Why news media fear the mayor; Ben's defense of the Sun-Times; and the silence of the Olympics. Length 7.5 minutes.
Will the Cubs' owners get the same (huge) tax break as the the Sox' owners; the red herring of the Cubs' threat to move; and what Mayor Daley really wants. Length 9.3 minutes.
Tho he's written no article about the Reader's layoff of his fellow staff writers, here Ben reveals how the layoffs have affected him, what the writers brought to the Reader, and what he sees in the paper's future. Length 6.8 minutes.
Why persons challenging Cook County incumbents often don't make it to the ballot; Ben's idea for open elections; and, which would you determines your government--football or elections? Length 9.3 minutes.
Demystifying the process for appealing property-tax assessments; Ben's plan for a fairer taxing scheme; and how champions of downtown talk on both sides of their mouths. Length 8.8 minutes.
Ben and Inside Chicago Government create a roadmap for taxpayers that reveals exactly how much of one's taxes get siphoned off to tax increment financing districts. Length 9.9 minutes.
How tax increment financing districts get gerrymandered; the dark underbelly of the public process; and public officials' off-the-record feelings about TIF. Length 9.8 minutes.