CTU wants a day off for students and teachers — for political activism By Lilly Rossi 04/09/2026 The Chicago Teachers Union wants the mayor and school board to approve May 1 as a paid day off and excused absence for a “Day of Civic Action.” TAGS: CTU: Chicago Teachers Union
Retired state employee backs pension buyouts for Chicago police, fire By Jess Plowman 04/09/2026 75% of property taxes raised for public safety are going to pensions instead of services.
Illinois can expand opportunity with apprenticeship bill By Josh Bandoch 04/02/2026 A measure in the General Assembly would permit cosmetology and barber apprenticeships as a pathway to a license.
Cutting red tape: Chicago makes progress, but long way to go By LyLena Estabine 04/02/2026 Mayor Brandon Johnson’s ‘Cut the Tape’ initiative has made real gains for housing in its second year. Still, the hardest reforms remain undone.
Cook County TIFs cost taxpayers over $2 billion By LyLena Estabine 04/01/2026 By freezing property values in a specific area, TIF districts artificially manipulate who pays the levy, leading to effective property tax hikes. TAGS: TIF: Tax Increment Financing
More than half of Illinois counties suffer outmigration By Bryce Hill 03/26/2026 Residents are leaving every corner of Illinois for other states despite surging international migration propping up the total population.
Illinois home prices jump as inventory plunges By LyLena Estabine, Jon Josko 03/26/2026 The state’s housing inventory is at just 31% of pre-pandemic levels, driving up prices. Restrictive zoning and the nation’s highest property taxes must be addressed.
Chicago Teachers Union must answer for audits By Lilly Rossi 03/24/2026 A Cook County judge isn’t letting the CTU off the hook for violating member rights. TAGS: CTU: Chicago Teachers Union
Teacher strike threats highlight fact that Illinois allows such walkouts By Benjamin Hines 03/23/2026 Illinois is among the minority of states allowing teachers to strike. None of Illinois’ neighbors allow it.
Tax concern should be a warning to Chicago’s mayor By Todd J. Behme 03/23/2026 Almost half of those in a new poll named taxes one of the city top-two issues. Concern about the economy is on the rise. TAGS: Brandon Johnson