Inside Chicago Government

3/19/21: "Ald. Andre Vasquez takes on gerrymandered, back-room ward remapping" Mar 19, 2021

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.)

3/11/21: "February City Council: Who CARES about COVID-19 police costs?" Mar 11, 2021

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.

2/16/21: "Ward remap flap: Latino Caucus vs. Lightfoot" Feb 17, 2021

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.

2/9/21: "Crossing Metra on TIF, Council has tiffs on maps and carjacks" Feb 09, 2021

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.

1/9/21: "Aldermen abrade mayor, corrade layers of failed raid" Jan 09, 2021

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.

12/26/20: "Chicago inspector general: police reform hindered by key departures" Dec 26, 2020

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.

12/16/20: "Chicago 2021 budget vote: mayor players and naysayers" Dec 16, 2020

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.

11/17/20: "Paul Vallas on Chicago's 2021 budget--and beyond" Nov 17, 2020

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.)

10/17/20: "How to vote for Cook County judges" Oct 25, 2020

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.)

10/24/20: "October City Council: aldermen pump brakes on contracting and TIF" Oct 24, 2020

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.

10/6/20: "Aldermen arise and compromise in late summer councils" Oct 06, 2020

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.

9/23/20: "Ald. Anthony Beale: looting, Lightfoot, and attempts to 'silence our voice' " Sep 21, 2020

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.)

8/5/20: "July City Council: landlords, landmarks, copwatch, and tribute" Aug 05, 2020

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.

7/4/20: "Aldermen trace race space in June council meeting" Jul 04, 2020

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.

6/6/20: "Slippery slopes and mayoral tropes mark May City Council" Jun 06, 2020

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.

5/6/20: "Lightfoot's council power push: beggars, blank checks, and speed bumps" May 06, 2020

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.

3/27/20: "Fire of aldermen's ire distracts from dire times" Mar 27, 2020

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.

3/3/20: "February City Council debate: how to lose a winner" Mar 03, 2020

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.

1/20/20: "City Council wrap-up: Lightfoot scold, aldermen fold" Jan 20, 2020

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.

12/20/19: "Aldermen proclaim principles in budget 'no' votes" Dec 20, 2019

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.

12/11/19: "City budget for dummies with Council Office of Financial Analysis" Dec 01, 2019

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.

10/13/19: "Chicagoans advise and chastise Lightfoot at budget town halls" Oct 13, 2019

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.

8/16/19: "Lightfoot administration defends Lincoln Yards TIF . . . why?" May 29, 2019

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.

8/11/19: "Secrets learned by--and kept from--newbie aldermen: La Spata's gotta grasp" Aug 11, 2019

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.

6/13/19: "Good-bye to Ben Joravsky interviews, but more to come" Jun 13, 2019

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.

5/29/19: "Megadevelopments like Lincoln Yards could face light footing" May 29, 2019

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.

4/11/19: "Cortland/Chicago River and Lincoln Yards TIF: final rules, duels, and reveals" Apr 12, 2019

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.

2/23/19: "Flipping TIF myths with mayoral candidates" Feb 23, 2019

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.

1/21/19: "Why and how wealthy Dem donor fired Joravsky from WCPT radio" Jan 21, 2019

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.

12/18/18: "A reporter's view of the Cortland TIF and Lincoln Yards" Dec 18, 2018

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.

11/6/18: "Mr Bike: Mayoral candidates transportation challenge" Jan 21, 2019

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.

10/22/18: "Ballot salad: Too many Chicago elections?" Oct 29, 2018

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.

8/28/18: "TIF take: opaque, no brake" Aug 28, 2018

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.

5/9/18: "Ask Mr Bike: Biking while black, traffic law, Supreme Court nominees, and Barack Obama" Aug 05, 2018

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.

7/8/18: "Congress Theater TIF, term limits: sensible schemes?" Jul 08, 2018

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.

6/20/18: "Public input on city budget is no oversight" Jun 20, 2018

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.

5/9/18: "Mr Bike: Trains, planes, and cyclist pains" May 09, 2018

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.

5/1/18: "Liberal and progressive: How do they differ?" May 01, 2018

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.

3/21/18: "Dave and Ben dissect voting, transit, and development" Mar 21, 2018

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.

3/16/18: "Primary lessons for voters and news media" Mar 16, 2018

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.

2/14/18: "A tweet-level look at Cook County Board meetings" Feb 14, 2018

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.

12/25/17: "Mr Bike's winter tips and mayoral quips" Dec 25, 2017

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.

12/8/17: "Rahm fired up about--but not firing--Forrest Claypool" Dec 08, 2017

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.

11/5/17: "Ben Joravsky's guide to asking tough questions" Nov 05, 2017

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.

10/2/17: "The Reader's new owners: well-heeled, hands-off" Oct 16, 2017

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.

10/2/17: "Tips and politics around Chicago bicycling" Oct 02, 2017

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.

8/13/17: "Mr Bike: Transit assets bring biking boost" Aug 13, 2017

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.

7/11/17: "Strike-primed Reader staff ache over takeover" Jul 11, 2017

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.

7/2/17: "Rauner's reforms: riff on Obama's form?" Jul 01, 2017

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.

5/11/17: "Claypool, Kennedy, Axelrod: Can you believe 'em?" May 12, 2017

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.

5/10/17: "Ben's new radio gig on WCPT-AM" May 10, 2017

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.

4/11/17: "Do Chicago bike riders blindly support the mayor?" Apr 12, 2017

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.

3/7/17: "School cash crisis tips Rauner's hand, marks Rahm's brand" Mar 07, 2017

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.

1/18/17: "Rich-guy Rahm comm" Jan 18, 2017

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.

11/17/16: "Trump and transit: Rahm railroads Red Line appeal" Nov 28, 2016

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.

10/10/16: "Reader staff goes public on contract talks" Oct 11, 2016

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.

10/4/16: "Aldermen float, sink TIF school funding" Oct 04, 2016

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.

9/16/16: "Divvy and Fleet suck from the TIF teat" Sep 16, 2016

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.

7/27/16: "Building green: who profits from the city's latest development schemes" Jul 29, 2016

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.

5/17/16: "Lucas Museum narrative is a mixed art" May 17, 2016

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.

4/1/16: "2016 primary election freaks out voters and pols" Apr 02, 2016

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.

2/10/16: "Many on deck as public school ship sinks" Feb 10, 2016

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.

12/28/15: "Rahm cops to 'owning' McDonald fiasco--or does he?" Dec 28, 2015

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.

11/24/15: "Property taxes: who to blame and why to care" Nov 24, 2015

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.

11/17/15: "2016 city budget raises taxes, fees, and questions" Sep 13, 2016

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.

9/21/15: "School start sees familiar class and cash chaos" Sep 21, 2015

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.

8/14/15: "Council, assembly, and school board: education funding tag team" Aug 14, 2015

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.

7/23/15: "Putting taxes where they belong: traders vs. TIF" Jul 23, 2015

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.

7/1/15: "Chicago's big, bad bonds: revenues or ruse?" Jul 01, 2015

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.

6/19/15: "School choices: myths, charters, dollars, and fear" Jun 19, 2015

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.

6/8/15: "Forecasting the 2015 city council: spines vs. stamps" Jun 09, 2015

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.

5/5/15: "Refuting the rationale for closing schools" May 05, 2015

The heart of Chicago public schools' problem; what proponents of school closings have missed; and Rahm's non-stop political campaign. Length 6 minutes.

4/26/15: "What the 2015 election tells us about Emanuel and voters" Apr 26, 2015

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.

4/1/15: "Mayoral election endgame: what's on voters' minds" Apr 01, 2015

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.

3/25/15: "How to arrest police secrecy streak" Mar 26, 2015

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.

3/9/15: "What's missing from the mayoral election?" Mar 10, 2015

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.

2/22/15: "Why Obama won't vote for Rahm" Feb 22, 2015

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.

2/19/15: "2015 election: Some council incumbents are flush" Feb 19, 2015

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.

2/12/15: "Mayoral election: Obama anoints, Rahm's on point" Feb 12, 2015

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.

1/15/15: "Investor-funded pre-K based on false premise, excluded kids" Feb 02, 2015

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.

12/18/14: "Does social promotion pass the test?" Dec 18, 2014

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.

11/26/14: "Banksters not risk-adverse with city purse" Nov 27, 2014

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.

11/13/14: "What Rauner's election means for Chicago" Nov 13, 2014

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.

10/30/14: "State/county election brings choice insights" Oct 30, 2014

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.

10/2/14: "Reelection run means selective endowment" Oct 10, 2014

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.

10/2/14: "Emanuel's privatization: a clean sweep?" Oct 02, 2014

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.

9/11/14: "Trumbull emblemizes lack of population planning" Sep 16, 2014

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.

8/18/14: "Mayoral election: What Shaw and Emanuel bring to the table" Aug 19, 2014

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.

7/19/14: "Municipal election preview: a signature event" Jul 19, 2014

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.

7/9/14: "State governor campaign proves taxing" Jul 09, 2014

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.

6/10/14: "A principled stand against the administration" Jun 11, 2014

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.

5/19/14: "The resegregation of Chicago public schools" May 19, 2014

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.

5/2/14: "Pension 'crisis' could meet its match in TIFs" May 02, 2014

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.

4/8/14: "South Loop deal tells of TIF's twists" Apr 09, 2014

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.

3/24/14: "Digital manufacturing site: Olympics repeat, weapons mill, or both?" Mar 24, 2014

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.

3/6/14: "State rep primaries: who's the real progressive?" Mar 07, 2014

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.

1/27/14: "Council rules favor mayor" Jan 28, 2014

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.

1/17/14: "Charter schools: where does the money go?" Jan 17, 2014

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.

12/12/13: "Democracy elusive in Chicago public schools" Dec 18, 2013

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.

11/21/13: "Aldermen's tiff on TIF" Nov 26, 2013

The wounding of Ald. Pawar; the myth of mayoral retribution; and the best tactic when one's ordinance gets buried. Length 5.1 minutes.

11/20/13: "The latest reminder of how Mayor Daley did business" Nov 21, 2013

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.

11/6/13: "A look at the mayor's 2014 budget proposal" Nov 06, 2013

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.

10/18/13: "Can anyone defeat Emanuel in 2015?" Oct 18, 2013

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.

9/26/13: "Alderman wants to know who benefited from charter school" Oct 01, 2013

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.

9/12/13: "Rahm with less chess, more Cermak TIFs" Sep 23, 2013

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.

9/5/13: "A tour of the McCormick arena development area" Sep 11, 2013

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.

8/29/13: "Mayor Emanuel: a tough leader for a tough city, or just an a-hole?" Sep 06, 2013

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.

8/15/13: "How I spent my summer break: firing teachers" Aug 29, 2013

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.

8/1/13: "There goes the Englewood neighborhood" Aug 05, 2013

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.

7/25/13: "Tracking TIF's tall tales" Jul 31, 2013

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.

7/11/13: "As schools starve, Mayor Emanuel finds $5 million for hot dogs" Jul 18, 2013

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.

6/27/13: "How Chicago's five-year school plan was dead on arrival" Jul 11, 2013

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.

6/13/13: "The madness behind Mayor Emanuel's methods" Jun 17, 2013

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.

6/6/13: "How Mayor Emanuel locked the parking meter deal in place" Jun 12, 2013

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.

5/30/13: "Rahm's new TIF program looks a lot like the old TIF program" Jun 06, 2013

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.

5/23/13: "Rahm's latest plan: close the schools, build an arena" May 30, 2013

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.

5/16/13: "Mayor Emanuel's FOIA policy: don't ask because we won't tell" May 22, 2013

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.

5/9/13: "The school model that's good enough for Pres. Obama and Mayor Emanuel" May 17, 2013

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.

5/2/13: "In the Chicago public schools, promises are made to be broken" May 07, 2013

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.

4/25/13: "Welcome to U.S. Cellular Field, home of the sweetheart deal" May 06, 2013

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.

4/11/13: "The lessons of Jane Byrne" Apr 15, 2013

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.

4/4/13: "The crowded classroom approach to fixing schools" Apr 10, 2013

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.

3/28/13: "Before the schools, Mayor Emanuel closed the clinics" Apr 01, 2013

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.

3/21/13: "Chicago Public Schools officials offer a lesson in confiscating books" Mar 27, 2013

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.

3/14/13: "Charities drowning in city water fees" Mar 18, 2013

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.

3/7/13: "Waiting for the day of judgment from Mayor Emanuel" Mar 12, 2013

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.

2/28/13: "Chicago's BFF's a legislator from Waukegan" Mar 05, 2013

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.

2/21/13: "Where good legislation goes to die" Feb 27, 2013

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.

2/14/13: "Good luck finding the documents that explain CPS's longer school day" Feb 18, 2013

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.

1/31/13: "Mayor Emanuel swears he's not interested in running for president" Feb 05, 2013

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.

1/24/13: "The Chicago manual of school closings" Jan 29, 2013

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.

1/17/13: "The last of the independents" Jan 23, 2013

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.

1/10/13: "Keeping up with the Jones High School Plans" Jan 16, 2013

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.

1/3/13: "ICE, CME, and TIFs" Jan 09, 2013

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.

12/13/12: "Taxation by obfuscation" Dec 15, 2012

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.

12/6/12: "A Development in Sheep's Clothing" Dec 11, 2012

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.

11/29/12: "Rahm's Addition by Subtraction Approach to Jobs" Dec 02, 2012

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.

11/22/12: "United Generously Returns Taxpayer Subsidy It Was Required to Return Anyway" Nov 28, 2012

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.

11/8/12: "To Mayor Emanuel, Some Jobs Are Worth More than Others" Nov 13, 2012

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.

11/1/12: "The Public Weighs in While the Mayor Skips Out" Nov 07, 2012

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.

10/25/12: "Whatever Happened to Story Time?" Oct 28, 2012

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.

10/11/12: "How the Democrats Let Derrick Smith Shoot Them in the Foot" Oct 21, 2012

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.

10/4/12: "Today's Lesson: Charters Do Not Outperform Unionized Schools" Oct 06, 2012

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.

9/20/12: "The Last Democracy in Chicago?" Oct 01, 2012

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.

9/13/12: "Why Chicago Teachers Hate Rahm" Sep 19, 2012

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.

9/6/12: "With Democrats Like These, Who Needs Republicans?" Sep 09, 2012

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.

8/30/12: "Akins in Our Midst" Sep 05, 2012

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.

8/16/12: "Prentice Preservationists Put Rahm in a Bind" Sep 05, 2012

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.

8/9/12: "The Grow House Next Door" Aug 22, 2012

The two forms of justice; why prosecutors stay tight-lipped; and what made this a hard story to write. Length 9.5 minutes.

8/2/12: "Say It Ain't So, Joe" Aug 07, 2012

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.

7/19/12: "As the Slush Fund Shrinks, the Mayor Dips In Anyway" Jul 25, 2012

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.

7/5/12: "How Chicago Said Yes to Pot" Jul 18, 2012

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.

7/5/12: "The Rahmney Plan for Schools" Jul 15, 2012

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.

6/28/12: "The Mayor's Millionaire Club, Part II" Jul 09, 2012

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.

6/7/12: "It's No Foxie Brown: Mayor Emanuel Makes a TIF Movie" Jun 06, 2012

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.

5/24/12: "Summits Come and Go, but the Mayor's Handouts Never End" May 31, 2012

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.

5/10/12: "Mayor Emanuel's Dumping Ground?" May 12, 2012

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.

4/26/12: "The Stand-Up Guy" Apr 29, 2012

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.

4/12/12: "The Mayor Has Big Plans for the City's Infrastructure" Apr 18, 2012

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.

3/29/12: "How Rahm Emanuel Can 'Save' the Schools" Apr 03, 2012

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.

3/15/12: "What's Really Going On in the Primary Elections" Mar 19, 2012

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.

3/1/12: "My Property Tax Bill Is Defective--I Want a Refund" Mar 07, 2012

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.

2/23/12: "The Reader Goes to Charter School" Feb 29, 2012

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.

2/16/12: "Your NATO/G8 Primer" Feb 27, 2012

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.

2/2/12: "With Library Cuts, Emanuel Turns the Page Backward" Feb 07, 2012

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.

1/19/12: "State Tax Break for the Merc Is More Laughable with Each Passing Day" Jan 24, 2012

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.

12/29/11: "And the Reward for Achievement in Local Politics Goes To . . ." Jan 09, 2012

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.

12/15/11: "All I Want for Christmas Is a City Council with a Backbone" Dec 19, 2011

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.

12/8/11: "How Clout Raised an Uptown TIF Deal From the Dead" Dec 12, 2011

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.

12/1/11: "The Politics of Pot" Dec 09, 2011

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.

11/24/11: "As Mayor Emanuel Cuts, His Hometown Shows How to Invest in a Library" Dec 06, 2011

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.

11/17/11: "Senator Kirk Claims That Chicago's Top High Schools Are Charters, but That Doesn't Mean It's True" Nov 20, 2011

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.

11/10/11: "Water + Sewers = Slush Fund" Nov 13, 2011

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.

10/27/11: "The Mayor's Millionaire Club" Jan 20, 2012

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.

10/27/11: "What to Tell an Alderman Who Fibs to You About TIFs" Nov 05, 2011

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.

9/29/11: "Wake Up, Chicago Teachers Union" Nov 10, 2011

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.

9/2/11: "Mayor Emanuel's Guide to Union Busting: Just Do it for the Kids" Oct 14, 2011

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.

9/8/11: "Mayor Emanuel May Be Breaking Budget Promises, but at Least He's Not Mayor What's-His-Name" Sep 12, 2011

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.

9/1/11: "Wrigley Funding Scheme Is Another Cub Loser" Sep 09, 2011

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.

8/18/11: "The Teacher Who Was Punished Indefinitely for Being Laid Off Once" Aug 31, 2011

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.

8/4/11: "Mayor Emanuel Does the TIF Reform Dance" Aug 11, 2011

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.

7/28/11: "Blogger Crusades Against Education 'Reformers'" Aug 04, 2011

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.

7/21/11: "Public schools, private budgets" Dec 23, 2012

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.

7/14/11: "Mayoral Progress Report: There's Room for Improvement" Jul 18, 2011

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.

7/7/11: "The Grass Gap" Jul 08, 2011

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.

6/30/11: "How a CPS Teacher Went from 'Excellent' to 'Do-Not-Hire' in One Year" Jul 01, 2011

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.

6/16/11: "Uptown Turns Down a TIF Deal--For the Moment" Jun 17, 2011

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.

6/9/11: "As Daley Cashes In, Ousted Teacher Gets Cut Off" Jun 10, 2011

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.

6/2/11: "Charter School Fights Teacher Organizing-and 'Public School' Label" Jun 04, 2011

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.

5/26/11: "The 20 Months That Made Mayor Emanuel" May 28, 2011

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.

5/12/11: "Twilight Zoning in the 43rd Ward" May 21, 2011

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.

5/5/11: "An Open Letter to Our Next Schools Chief" May 06, 2011

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.

4/28/11: "TIF Gifts Just Keep on Giving" May 02, 2011

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.

4/14/11: "Stacking the Odds in Favor of Charter Schools" Apr 18, 2011

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.

4/7/11: "Racial Migration in the Strangest Locations" Apr 11, 2011

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.

3/31/11: "Ben Joravsky's Guide to the Aldermanic Runoffs" Apr 01, 2011

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.

3/17/11: "Getting Along Without Him Now" Mar 18, 2011

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.

3/10/11: "Rickey Hendon: A Loud Act to Follow" Mar 12, 2011

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.

3/3/11: "From the Alley to the Council" Mar 04, 2011

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.

2/24/11: "Carving Time Approaches" Feb 27, 2011

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.

2/17/11: "Aldermania!" Feb 23, 2011

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.

2/3/11: "Sic 'Em" Feb 03, 2011

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.

1/27/11: "Mr. Nice Guy" Jan 30, 2011

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.

1/20/11: "Chico and the Man" Jan 20, 2011

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.

12/16/10: "How Did We Get to 12,500?" Dec 16, 2010

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.

12/2/10: "The Merc's Manual" Dec 03, 2010

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.

11/25/10: "Do the Math" Nov 28, 2010

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.

11/18/10: "The Poor Pay Again" Nov 18, 2010

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.

11/11/10: "Whittier: What Fanned the Flames" Nov 11, 2010

How local school councils came about; why Mayor Daley eviscerated local school control; and what happens when public schools lack clout. Length 9 minutes.

10/28/10: "The Practical Party" Oct 30, 2010

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.

10/21/10: "Post-Stroger Politics" Oct 21, 2010

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.

10/14/10: "No White Knight, No Silver Bullet" Oct 14, 2010

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.

10/7/10: "Mayoral Mayhem" Oct 08, 2010

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.

9/30/10: "The Hot New Issue" Sep 30, 2010

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.

9/23/10: "Filed Away?" Sep 28, 2010

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.

9/16/10: "Me and My Mayor" Sep 16, 2010

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.

9/2/10: "Define 'Redefinition'" Sep 03, 2010

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.

8/19/10: "Go on, Smash It" Aug 24, 2010

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.

8/12/10: "The Vanishing Beat Cop" Aug 12, 2010

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.

7/29/10: "The Picture Police" Jul 30, 2010

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.

7/22/10: "The Head Cheerleaders" Jul 23, 2010

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.

7/15/10: "A TIF Under a Microscope" Jul 15, 2010

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.

7/8/10: "Huberman's Miracle" Jul 08, 2010

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.

7/1/10: "Chicago Reader Fires Long-Time Editor Alison True" Jul 06, 2010

Ben Joravsky reflects on the tenure and departure of Alison True, the recently-fired editor of the Chicago Reader. Length 8.7 minutes.

6/17/10: "The Armies Are Gathering" Jun 22, 2010

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.

6/10/10: "The Battle Before the War" Jun 12, 2010

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.

6/3/10: "Less Is More at CPS" Jun 03, 2010

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.

5/27/10: "Less Is More at CPS" May 27, 2010

How to get the city to publish public information; the myth of the super-hero teacher; and teachers as whistleblowers. Length 6.9 minutes.

5/20/10: "Who Wins in Daley's TIF Game" May 23, 2010

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.

5/6/10: "Check the Thermostat in Hell" May 06, 2010

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.

4/29/10: "He Doesn't Have to Outrun the Bear" Apr 30, 2010

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.

4/15/10: "A Raise by Any Other Name" Apr 19, 2010

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.

4/1/10: "Do As We Say, Not As We Do" Apr 01, 2010

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.

3/18/10: "The Untouchables" Mar 21, 2010

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.

3/11/10: "Taking the New Yorker for a Ride" Mar 11, 2010

Willfull ignorance of entrenched poverty--worse than misleading; corruption without salvation; and other mayors' Daley-envy. Length 6.4 minutes.

3/4/10: "An Island in the Swamp" Mar 08, 2010

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.

2/25/10: "Off Track" Feb 25, 2010

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.

2/18/10: "It Pays to Have an Alderman in Your Pocket" Feb 19, 2010

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.

2/4/10: "Harold and the Hyneses" Feb 04, 2010

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.

1/28/10: "Election Follies" Jan 29, 2010

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.

1/21/10: "Cook County Needs Cojones" Jan 24, 2010

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.

1/14/10: "Who'll Keep Your Rent Down Now?" Jan 15, 2010

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.

1/7/10: "Independent of What?" Jan 08, 2010

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.

12/31/09: "Who Deserves to Be Disqualified?" Jan 05, 2010

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.

12/17/09: "It Doesn't Take Much to Be a Maverick" Dec 18, 2009

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.

12/10/09: "Shedding Light on the Shadow Budget" Dec 10, 2009

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.

11/26/09: "The Insider" Nov 29, 2009

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.

11/19/09: "Transparency in Action" Nov 19, 2009

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.

11/5/09: "October Surprise" Nov 05, 2009

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.

10/29/09: "Clout on the Calumet River" Oct 29, 2009

A profile of the Southeast Side; whether taxes should fund property buy-outs; and helping communities economically by closing businesses. Length 8.6 minutes.

10/22/09: "The Shadow Budget" Oct 28, 2009

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.

10/15/09: "Who'll Decide How Much You'll Pay?" Oct 15, 2009

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.

10/8/09: "Lessons from the Olympic Bid" Oct 09, 2009

The average Joe leading the leaders; how Michelle Malkin showed up; and, corporations: great job, Mayor Daley! Length 8 minutes.

10/1/09: "Dear International Olympic Committee" Oct 02, 2009

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.

9/17/09: "Ben Joravsky, Tool of the Man" Sep 17, 2009

The glue that holds patronage together; the Jose Conseco story; and Rod Blagojevich: the next Jerry Springer. Length 7.1 minutes.

9/10/09: "Funds and Games: Chicago 2016's 'Stewardship Report'" Sep 14, 2009

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.

9/3/09: "Ready, Set, Hike" Sep 09, 2009

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.

8/20/09: "The Real Estate King of the City Council" Sep 08, 2009

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.

8/13/09: "Who'll Be the Bad Guy Now?" Aug 13, 2009

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.

8/6/09: "Mr. Big Spender" Aug 06, 2009

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.

7/30/09: "Michael Reese Hospital: The First Sacrificial Lamb" Jul 30, 2009

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.

7/23/09: "Wanna Buy an Olympics?" Jul 23, 2009

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.

7/16/09: "Still No Property Tax Bill for the Park Grill" Jul 18, 2009

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.

7/9/09: "Unsolved Mysteries" Jul 09, 2009

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.

7/2/09: "On the Hook" Jul 02, 2009

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.

6/25/09: "The Grand Old Party's Last Stand" Jul 07, 2009

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.

6/18/09: "The Insiders" Jun 21, 2009

Who enforces the city's procurement rules; parking meters on steroids; and privatization by cocktail party. Length 9.8 minutes.

6/4/09: "What TIFs Giveth, the Olympics Taketh Away" Jun 11, 2009

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.

5/28/09: "University Village: The Story's Not Finished" May 28, 2009

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.

5/15/09: "Fail Part II" May 18, 2009

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.

5/7/09: "Taking Advantage of TIF Ignorance" May 07, 2009

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.

4/30/09: "Midterm Examination" May 01, 2009

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.

4/16/09: "Ben Javorsky for Mayor!" Apr 17, 2009

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.

4/9/09: "Fail: How Daley and his crew hid their process from the public, ignored their own rules, railroaded the City Council, and screwed the taxpayers on the parking meter lease deal" Apr 09, 2009

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.

4/2/09: "An Open Letter to the IOC" Apr 02, 2009

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.

3/26/09: "Stimulus, Chicago Style" Mar 26, 2009

The three ways to end corporate relocation subsidies; Ben's favorite way; and start-up jobs instead of stolen jobs. Length 9.9 minutes.

3/19/09: "Show Me the Money" Mar 19, 2009

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.

3/12/09: "Money for Nothing" Mar 12, 2009

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.

3/5/09: "The Straw Man" Mar 05, 2009

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.

2/26/09: "The $10.5 Million Mascot" Feb 26, 2009

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.

2/19/09: "The Race to Replace Rahm" Feb 20, 2009

Earmarks: copious or corrupting; pros and cons of minority districts; and the 5th congressional district as an evolutionary indicator. Length 9.6 minutes.

2/5/09: "MVP or Mope?" Feb 06, 2009

Defining progressive vs. independent officials; whether aldermen should both legislate and provide constituent services; and the mayor loses his mind. Length 9.2 minutes.

1/29/09: "The Hack Who Pissed Off Harold" Jan 29, 2009

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.

1/22/09: "City for Sale" Jan 22, 2009

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.

1/15/09: "Taking the Fifth" Jan 15, 2009

How slatemaking works; Ben's ideal Congressperson; and why Chicago Congresspersons stay out of Chicago's governmental problems. Length 9.3 minutes.

1/8/09: "Would You Vote for Roland Burris?" Jan 09, 2009

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.

12/18/08: "Out the Window" Dec 22, 2008

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.

12/11/08: "The Right Fight" Dec 10, 2008

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.

12/4/08: "More Olympic Games" Dec 04, 2008

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.

11/27/08: "Hot Seat" Nov 28, 2008

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.

11/20/08: "The Chickens Outfox the Foxes" Nov 20, 2008

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.

11/13/08: "Yes, He Can" Nov 19, 2008

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.

11/6/08: "When the Slush Dries Up" Nov 11, 2008

The future of the Reader's print edition; TIF districts as borrowing enablers; and incentives for aldermanic subservience--drying up? Length 8.1 minutes.

10/30/08: "The Back-Door Plan" Nov 02, 2008

How zoning protects the citizenry; rezoning vs. variances; and a look at the members of the Zoning Board of Appeals. Length 9.9 minutes.

10/23/08: "The Mark of Madigan?" Oct 27, 2008

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.

10/16/08: "Easy Money" Oct 17, 2008

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.

10/9/08: "October Surprise" Oct 13, 2008

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.

10/2/08: "Get Off the Pot" Oct 03, 2008

The firefighter rebellion; dissecting the TIF take; and a great idea for county clerk David Orr. Length 7.5 minutes.

9/25/08: "The Endangered Watchdog" Sep 29, 2008

Why Chicago has local school councils; how control of public schools became re-centralized; and your choice: democracy or oligarchy. Length 8.8 minutes.

9/18/08: "Daley Doesn't Need Him" Sep 19, 2008

A re-do on Rep. Skip Saviano; the subway station you'll never see; and pole-vaulting under Block 37. Length 6.6 minutes.

9/11/08: "It's Not Illegal to Be Obnoxious" Sep 13, 2008

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.

9/4/08: "Here's a Tip for the Defense: TIFs" Sep 05, 2008

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.

8/28/08: "It's the Mayor, Stupid" Sep 04, 2008

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.

8/14/08: "An Artificial Battle" Aug 18, 2008

The vulnerability of park permit holders; how Ben avoids virtual censorship; and why Ben sleeps well at night. Length 6.5 minutes.

8/7/08: "Three Million Lawsuits Oughta Do It" Aug 08, 2008

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.

7/31/08: "Endless War" Aug 01, 2008

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.

7/24/08: "Magic Beans" Jul 25, 2008

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.

7/10/08: "Seize the Moment" Jul 14, 2008

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.

7/3/08: "The Dead Zone" Jul 11, 2008

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.

6/19/08: "The Road to 2016" Jun 24, 2008

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.

6/12/08: "Is Obama a Chicago Politician?" Jun 17, 2008

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.

6/5/08: "The TIF That Keeps On Taking" Jun 11, 2008

Ben's confession and pledge; the fundamental Olympics question for Chicagoans; and how corporate leaders committed themselves to a lie. Length 8.5 minutes.

5/29/08: "The Mystery of the Construction Obstructionist " Jun 02, 2008

Public-building development demystified; another way to keep public schools under control; and how alderman sign away their power. Length 8.2 minutes.

5/15/08: "A Commission of Puppets" May 20, 2008

The selective sight of lakefront protectionists; preparing for indictment of the mayor; and Bush's payback to the Daleys. Length 10 minutes.

4/24/08: "Worse Than We Thought" Apr 28, 2008

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.

4/17/08: "A City Off Track" Apr 21, 2008

Background on a mayoral ally; Ben's great disappointment with bicycling advocates; and whether the press should count student murders. Length 7.1 minutes.

4/10/08: "Apparently Money Does Grow on Trees" Apr 11, 2008

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.

4/3/08: "It's All About the Olympics" Apr 08, 2008

How citizens become robots; how a non-robot sees his role; and, can advisory councils survive a purge? Length 8.7 minutes.

3/13/08: "An Independent Streak" Mar 15, 2008

The wealthy--our feeble hope; why you should embrace entitlement; and why the ward map looks like a jigsaw puzzle. Length 9 minutes.

3/6/08: "A New Twist on an Old Trick" Mar 11, 2008

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.

2/28/08: "We Might Take Your House" Mar 03, 2008

The plan that doesn't plan; a TIF reform that Ben actually likes; and, did the alderman deserve a scolding? Length 8.8 minutes.

2/21/08: "Just Stupid Enough to Be True" Feb 25, 2008

Winners of the Chicago citizenship award; how voting beats recycling; and Chicago elections--the new basketball? Length 8.7 minutes.

2/14/08: "The Mayor in the Mirror" Feb 18, 2008

The Block 37 debacle dissected; bonds better for building; and Alderman Ben and Alderman Dave's lesson in democracy. Length 9.7 minutes.

2/7/08: "The New School Shuffle" Feb 10, 2008

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.

1/31/08: "The Pot and the Kettle" Feb 04, 2008

What the Board of Review does; and conflict of interest everywhere you look. Length 4.1 minutes.

1/31/08: "A True Outsider" Feb 04, 2008

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.

1/24/08: "Mell Family Politics" Jan 30, 2008

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.

1/17/08: "A Good Day for the Rainmakers" Jan 21, 2008

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.

1/10/08: "Hear Ye, Hear Ye: King Daley issues his self-serving proclamations for '08" Jan 14, 2008

Why news media fear the mayor; Ben's defense of the Sun-Times; and the silence of the Olympics. Length 7.5 minutes.

1/3/08: "A Zell of a Deal" Jan 09, 2008

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.

12/27/07: "Staff Cuts at the Chicago Reader" Dec 28, 2007

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.

12/13/07: "Freshman Follies" Dec 14, 2007

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.

11/29/07: "The Madigan Effect" Nov 30, 2007

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.

11/22/07: "The True TIF Tally" Nov 23, 2007

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.

11/1/07: "TIFs for Dummies" Nov 02, 2007

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.

Our TOPPODCAST Picks

Follow Us

Stay Connected

Related Podcasts

Links

Stay Connected