advertisement

Better Government Association sues Rosemont over refusal to disclose records

A government watchdog group has sued the village of Rosemont over its refusal to release financial records relating to its entertainment venues.

The Better Government Association's suit filed Thursday in Cook County circuit court argues that the village must release copies of contracts related to venues operated by the village, specifically the Allstate Arena and Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act. The village denied the BGA's records request, claiming such information was exempt under FOIA law because the information constituted "trade secrets."

Village officials also cited an ordinance passed by the village board Nov. 12 that provides for the "protection of confidential financial and proprietary information" about village-owned entertainment venues from public disclosure under FOIA.

The ordinance could prevent, for example, disclosure of the amount of incentives village officials give in an attempt to lure conventions to the convention center, or shows at the arena.

"When will government learn it is a not a private business - it's supposed to be responsive to the public," BGA President and CEO Andy Shaw said in a news release. "Those entertainment venues are taxpayer facilities. How can taxpayers adequately gauge how well government is operating if nobody can see the books?"

Mayor Brad Stephens didn't respond to a request for comment Thursday, but said at the time the ordinance was passed that disclosing certain financial information about shows would make Rosemont lose its "competitive edge" against privately-owned entertainment venues, such as the United Center, which doesn't have to release financial information.

He argued that the incentives are an important tool in attracting shows that might have considered other venues.

"We're about the big picture," Stephens said. "Hotel and restaurant tax matter to the bottom line, and if we have to give you something at the top end, it'll help us at the back end."

New Rosemont law aims to keep some financial information secret

Keep towns' business contracts public

Business-friendly laws help taxpayers

Article Comments
Guidelines: Keep it civil and on topic; no profanity, vulgarity, slurs or personal attacks. People who harass others or joke about tragedies will be blocked. If a comment violates these standards or our terms of service, click the "flag" link in the lower-right corner of the comment box. To find our more, read our FAQ.