Chicago Tribune Co. v. Cook County Assessor’s Office

Chicago Tribune requested records from County Assessors Office, under FOIA, pertaining tovaluation of property for purposes of taxation. Information requested is critical for public to understand how they are being taxed. Assessors Office failed to show how requested records fall within scope of deliberative process exemption. Court did not abuse its discretion in awarding attorney fees and costs to Tribune, as case is important with difficult issues litigated skillfully by both parties. (HARRIS and MIKVA, concurring.)