Illinois’ comeback story starts here.

Vallas: Hunger strike saved school, but academic neglect starves students

Vallas: Hunger strike saved school, but academic neglect starves students

The Chicago Teachers Union’s refusal to close near-empty schools and push for more “sustainable community schools” is hurting student achievement. CTU is about adding members and escaping accountability, not about what’s best for Chicago students.

By Paul Vallas

No. 2 no more: Illinois property taxes rank highest in U.S.

No. 2 no more: Illinois property taxes rank highest in U.S.

Illinois just ranked as having the highest property tax rate in the country. Property taxes in Illinois are an especially heavy burden without the tradeoff seen in states such as Texas or New Hampshire, where there are either no sales taxes or income taxes.

By Charlotte Rotkis

Chicago Teachers Union president fails to pay her bills… again

Chicago Teachers Union president fails to pay her bills… again

Despite Chicago Teachers Union President Stacy Davis Gates’ constant demands for “wealthy” taxpayers to pay their “fair share,” she is behind on her city water, sewer and trash bills once again. She makes $265,150 a year.

By Lilly Rossi

Oak Park natural gas ban faces legal challenge

Oak Park natural gas ban faces legal challenge

In 2024, Oak Park, Illinois, went where Mayor Brandon Johnson tried to take Chicago – banning all natural gas connections in new building projects. The high cost of this inconsequential, feel-good move is getting legal pushback.

By Jerry Barmore