Expires 12/01/2027
Welcome – Program Moderators
Steven M. Elrod, Elrod Friedman LLP, Chicago
Peter M. Friedman, Elrod Friedman LLP, Chicago
45 Minutes Local Government Law Caselaw and Legislative Update
The Courts, the Illinois General Assembly, and the US Congress have been very busy in 2025 on multiple critically important matters related to governmental bodies at all levels. We’ll cover the most important judicial and legislative activities from 2025 and their impacts on Illinois local government.
Peter M. Friedman, Elrod Friedman LLP, Chicago
45 Minutes Development and Economic Incentives
Economic development projects often require complex negotiations between municipalities and developers. This interactive session brings together experienced government attorneys and private-sector professionals to discuss how they work together—and why. Through a point–counterpoint format, panelists will explore key incentives, legal considerations, and the practical push and pull on both sides of the table. Gain insight into the strategic thinking behind successful development agreements and how collaboration drives results.
Session Moderator: Lance C. Malina, Klein, Thorpe and Jenkins, Ltd., Chicago
Harold W. Francke, Meltzer, Purtill & Stelle, LLC, Schaumburg
Matthew E. Norton, Burke Warren MacKay & Serritella, P.C., Chicago
45 Minutes The 1st Amendment & Public Forum Spaces
Managing public spaces means balancing free speech rights with practical concerns. This session explores how the First Amendment applies to government property—like meeting rooms, parade routes, and protest areas—and offers guidance on handling controversial users, First Amendment audits, and forum classifications. Learn how to navigate these issues while maintaining compliance and public trust.
Steven M. Elrod, Elrod Friedman LLP, Chicago
Julie A. Tappendorf, Ancel Glink, PC, Chicago
45 Minutes Federalism in Local Government Panel
Join an engaging panel of faculty members for a wide-ranging conversation on federalism and how it shapes the everyday work of local government attorneys. Attendees are invited to share experiences and tips as well.
45 Minutes Local Government Attorney's Guide to What Not to Do in Employment Law
This section will provide a step-by-step methodology for dealing with employment claims, focusing on strategies for managing state and federal agency claims, Illinois Labor Relations Board proceedings, and litigation practice.
John Murphey, Odelson, Murphey, Frazier & McGrath, Ltd., Evergreen Park
45 Minutes Intergovernmental Cooperation: How to Work Together and Tips for Drafting IGAs
Effective collaboration between units of government can lead to better outcomes for communities—but it requires careful planning and clear agreements. This session takes a practical look at intergovernmental cooperation, offering tips for drafting solid Intergovernmental Agreements (IGAs) and avoiding common pitfalls. Topics will include legal considerations, best practices, and real-world examples—such as school districts and municipalities working together on impact fees and infrastructure needs.
James S. Levi, Hodges, Loizzi, Eisenhammer, Rodick & Kohn LLP, Itasca
1 Hour Ethical Issues and AI in Local Government Law
(1.0 Professional Responsibility CLE)
Explore the unique ethical challenges posed by artificial intelligence in local government law, from hallucinated caselaw and confidently wrong “legal” advice to client misuse for drafting ordinances or policies. Learn how to address misinformation in the community, copyright concerns, and oversight obligations under the Illinois Rules of Professional Conduct, while developing practical AI policies for your office or firm.
Richard Gleason, Illinois ARDC, Chicago
Adjourn
Many thanks to our 2025 Planning Committee:
Steven M. Elrod, Elrod Friedman LLP, Chicago
Peter M. Friedman, Elrod Friedman LLP, Chicago
Lance C. Malina, Klein, Thorpe and Jenkins, Ltd., Chicago
John Murphey, Odelson, Murphey, Frazier & McGrath, Ltd., Evergreen Park
Ruth A. Schlossberg, Zukowski, Rogers, Flood & McArdle, Crystal Lake
Julie A. Tappendorf, Ancel Glink, PC, Chicago
