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Simon taps CGS for military study

March 21, 2014
Lt. Gov. Sheila Simon

Lt. Gov. Sheila Simon

Working in partnership with the Illinois Chamber of Commerce Foundation, Lt. Governor Sheila Simon announced that the Northern Illinois University’s Center for Governmental Studies (CGS) will develop a comprehensive report detailing the regional and overall state economic impact of federal and state military assets and the defense industry in Illinois.

“We look forward to working with the chamber and military leaders around the state on this project,” said Brian Richard, assistant director for community, economic and workforce development with the Center for Governmental Studies. “It’s exciting to be a part of this team exploring opportunities to strengthen and expand the economic impact of the defense industry in Illinois.”

NIU researchers will calculate the economic impact of the state’s military installations and provide the data needed for Congressional, state and business leaders to protect Illinois’ military economy at a time of federal defense spending cuts, forced reallocations and base realignment or closure.

“This study will provide the information we need to retain our military bases, promote our great facilities and encourage Illinois job growth. I am pleased to partner with the Illinois Chamber of Commerce Foundation to protect our military assets and grow our defense industry,” said Simon, chair of the Interagency Military Base Support and Economic Development Committee.

Earlier this year the Illinois Chamber Foundation released a Request for Proposal (RFP) to select a contractor capable of researching, analyzing, and producing a comprehensive report that details the regional and overall state economic impact of federal and state military assets and the defense industry in Illinois. After reviewing submissions, CGS was selected based on its ability to conduct the research and analysis. The final report is due in October.

“We’re excited to take the next step in this process. CGS has a diverse portfolio of economic research that we know will help us understand the economic impact of our defense installations and defense industry on our economy,” said Benjamin Brockschmidt, director of federal affairs with the Illinois Chamber of Commerce.

Founded in 1969, the Center for Governmental Studies is a public policy unit at Northern Illinois University that assembles interdisciplinary teams from its own professional staff and across the university to work with government at all levels, non-profit organizations, school districts, community colleges, park districts, library districts, land conservation districts, land developers, health care agencies, and utilities. CGS provides expertise that helps decision-makers implement efficient, sustainable, and cost-effective approaches to social, economic, and information management issues.