Center for Governmental Studies

Building stronger regions through innovation and collaboration to

Mission

The Center for Governmental Studies at Northern Illinois University provides expertise that helps decision-makers implement efficient, sustainable, and cost-effective approaches to economic, social, and information management issues.

CGS PRACTICE AREAS

Illinois Municipal Price Index

CGS Recent Work

Policy Profiles June 2018 - “The Future of Rural Illinois: Predicaments and Possible Solutions” compiles data indicating that Illinois’ rural counties are continuing to lose population, especially in the age group comprised of working adults. Compounding the loss of population is the growing need to provide and expand the services required by senior citizens who constitute an increasing percentage of rural residents. The newly published Profiles suggests strategies rural counties can pursue to sustain the quality of life in rural Illinois in the years ahead.

Vol. 2 lllinois Municipal Policy Journal - Includes two articles by CGS research associates: one by Norman Walzer, Mim Evans and Michael Aquino about Downtown Development issues. The other is by Norman Walzer about Community Supported Enterprises as a Local Investment Strategy.

Vol. 1 lllinois Municipal Policy Journal - Includes two articles by CGS research associates: one by Cory Poris Plasch and Norman Walzer on shared services. The other by Shannon Sohl, Andy Blanke and Norman Walzer on determinants of unrestricted net reserves in Illinois municipalities.

Unemployment, Labor Force Participation and the Illinois Work Force - Report

"Think Globally/Eat Locally" - Video

Community Supported Enterprises - Report

Community Supported Enterprises - Executive Summary

Local Government Consolidation and Unfunded Mandates Task Force Final Report

Northern Illinois University and Our Region’s Prosperity

A Revitalization Plan for DeKalb, IL

Policy Profile September 2016: The Big Unknown: How Much Money Do Illinois' Local Governments Spend Annually?

More Recent CGS Work...

Current CGS Events

Civic Leadership Academy

Registration for the 2017-2018 Civic Leadership Academy is open. Plan to attend one or more of the workshops offered. For more information, visit the CLA Page.

More Upcoming Events...