The State of Illinois Intergovernmental Agreement: What It Is and Why It Matters

An Intergovernmental Agreement, or IGA, is a legal document that allows two or more governmental entities to work together on a particular issue or project. In the State of Illinois, IGAs are used frequently to facilitate cooperation between local governments, state agencies, and other organizations.

IGAs can cover a wide range of topics, from emergency response and public safety to economic development and infrastructure projects. They can be used to pool resources, share expertise, and avoid duplication of effort. IGAs can also provide a framework for resolving conflicts and addressing issues that arise during the course of collaboration.

In Illinois, IGAs are governed by the Intergovernmental Cooperation Act, which sets out the requirements for creating and implementing these agreements. Among other things, the Act requires that all IGAs be in writing, be approved by the governing bodies of the parties involved, and specify the terms and purpose of the agreement.

One notable example of an Illinois IGA is the agreement between the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) and the City of Chicago for the reconstruction of the Jane Byrne Interchange. This project, which involves rebuilding one of the busiest interchanges in the country, is a collaboration between IDOT, the City of Chicago, and the Federal Highway Administration. The IGA provides a framework for coordinating the work of these entities and ensuring that the project is completed on time and within budget.

Another important use of IGAs in Illinois is in the area of emergency response. For example, the City of Chicago and Cook County have an IGA in place for sharing emergency management resources and coordinating response efforts during disasters and other emergencies. This agreement helps to ensure that all agencies involved are working together effectively to protect the public and provide necessary services.

Overall, IGAs play a critical role in promoting cooperation and collaboration between different levels of government and other organizations in Illinois. By providing a framework for sharing resources, expertise, and information, these agreements help to ensure that important projects and initiatives are completed efficiently and effectively. As such, they are an important tool for policymakers, administrators, and other leaders in Illinois to consider as they work to address the state`s most pressing challenges.