Inside Chicago Government

Debunking--or validating--Bob Fioretti's claim that TIF saps revenue from governmental bodies; Daley, Enyia, and Fioretti's population-growth goal maybe stymied by TIF; and how ripple effects from developments like Lincoln Yards make Chicago less affordable. Length 7 minutes.

In an interview by Ben Joravsky with Dave Glowacz on WCPT-AM's Ben Joravsky Show, Mr Bike reveals how local planners have challenged mayoral candidates to adopt a bold Chicago transportation vision. Ben and Dave discuss sources of revenue to fund better transit; why bike lanes don't go far enough to encourage cycling; and state legislators' strategy to legalize marijuana. Length 5.9 minutes.

Did WCPT owner Fred Eychaner fire Joravsky from his radio show due to Ben's rigorous examination of mainstream Chicago Democrats? Also: how the Reader sheltered Ben from the repeated turnover of wealthy owners; whether radio bosses duped Ben with a glowing performance review; how not to ambush radio guests; and Ben says he'll return. Length 6.5 minutes.

In an interview by Ben Joravsky with Dave Glowacz on WCPT-AM's Ben Joravsky Show, Ben and Dave recap residents' objections to the Lincoln Yards development; how the Hideout became a focus of the Lincoln Yards challenges; and aldermanic power of TIF district approval. Also: Mr Bike's cold-weather biking tips, and city treasurer Kurt Summers' rebuke of Mayor Emanuel. Length 5.2 minutes.

The many candidates, issues, and referenda currently facing Chicago voters; the state income-tax lesson of Illinois Gov. Ogilvie; and the ethicality of a candidate running for two offices at once. Length 6 minutes.

Tax-increment financing's central flaw around inequity; how mayoral candidates' voter calculus might craft their reactions to TIF; and comparing the approaches to developer subsidy of Ald. Proco Joe Moreno and Ald. John Arena. Length 6.9 minutes.

In an interview by Ben Joravsky with Dave Glowacz on WCPT-AM's Ben Joravsky Show, Ben and Dave discuss how Chicagoans in black areas have gotten bicycling tickets in far greater numbers than those in white areas. Also: what laws bikers must obey; Senate votes for a Supreme Court nominee; and Barack Obama's announced support of Illinois statewide candidates. Length 5.2 minutes.

In an interview by Ben Joravsky with Dave Glowacz on WCPT-AM's Ben Joravsky Show, Ben and Dave discuss the merits of tax-increment financing for the Congress Theater; whether term limits result in better government; and whether heads of state write their own opinion pieces. Length 5.8 minutes.

How city budgets have changed over three decades; Mayor Emanuel's approach to public input--that differs from Mayor Daley's; and where effective budget oversight can come from. Length 6.8 minutes.

In an interview by Ben Joravsky with Dave Glowacz on WCPT-AM's Ben Joravsky Show, Ben and Dave discuss how to get past a mental "biking block;" how to accommodate bicycling on Lake Shore Drive; and dealing with agression on the road--from both cyclists and motorists. Length 5.4 minutes.