Lessons learned from FCC v. AT&T: A look at the recent U.S. Supreme Court caseBy Lisle A. StalterJune 2011Although there are some fundamental difference in the federal Freedom of Information Act (“FOIA”) and the Illinois equivalent, lessons can be learned from the analysis of the recent U.S. Supreme Court decision in Federal Communications Commission v. AT&T.
Negotiating tax increment financing redevelopment agreementsBy Herbert J. KleinApril 2011As redevelopment agreements typically exist for a number of years, care should be taken to address all known and reasonably anticipated issues in a clear and unambiguous manner. Here's a look at some of the items the agreement should address.
Official misconduct—What constitutes a law?By John H. BrechinAugust 2011Defendant maintained that he was not guilty of official misconduct because the regulations he violated are not “laws” within the meaning of the Statute.
Personal property replacement taxes and public librariesBy Phillip B. LenziniAugust 2011If a library existed before 1978, it should be receiving personal property tax replacement funds, either directly from the State or through its host municipality or township.
Synthetic drugs: Playing catch-up with chemicalsBy Mark C. PalmerDecember 2011A multi-pronged plan that stresses education, prevention and public awareness along with updated laws and their enforcement should address the expanding danger of synthetic drug use.
Troubled times require new approachesBy Kathleen Field OrrOctober 2011Only time will permit the market place to absorb the thousands of foreclosures of both commercial and residential properties. In order to participate in modest growth and reasonable expansion to sustain the infrastructure that has been put into place, communities must revisit their demands upon developer for impact fees, land dedications and renegotiate recapture agreements.
Who’s that knocking at my door? A synopsis of door-to-door solicitation casesBy Mark C. PalmerJanuary 2011The local powers granted to municipalities to protect the health and welfare of its citizens, including prevention of crime, fraud and invasion of privacy, must be fairly balanced with any prior restraints on the Constitutional rights of the salespersons.