Chicago City Wire

Anyone wishing to become a citizen watchdog can attend the Better Government Association’s (BGA) free public training session 5-7 p.m. Jan. 12 at DePaul University, 14 E. Jackson Blvd., Room 1137, in Chicago.

Although BGA has a real dog as a mascot, its mission is to train humans to sharpen their skills as “watchdogs.” The investigative nonprofit teaches area residents how to “keep an eye on government and find out what’s happening” in their respective communities.

January’s workshop will focus on helping individuals better understand two regulations: the Open Meetings Act and the Freedom of Information Act. For more information or to register, call Stephanie Simon at 312-821-9042 or email ssimon@bettergov.org.

Promoting reform throughout Illinois through investigative journalism, civic engagement and advocacy, BGA keeps a spotlight trained on government to hold public officials accountable.

Both nonprofit and nonpartisan, BGA makes it a point not to accept donations from any government agencies or political groups. The group has engaged over 15,000 citizens to date and saved an estimated $50 million in taxpayer costs, its website said. The BGA is partly funded by the Robert R. McCormick Foundation.

BGA regularly publishes articles about government pensions, salary and accountability, campaign financing, taxes and spending, justice, education, transportation, environment and health issues. Its five core pillars are to investigate, litigate, educate, advocate and communicate for better government in Illinois.

Its real-life mascot, Watson the Watchdog, is a formerly homeless canine that the group said sniffs out waste, corruption and fraud.