Better Government Association

Watchdog Group Calls On Daley To Add Resources To Inspector General's Office

Posted: Wednesday, 25 April 2007 10:00AM
Lisa Fielding

CHICAGO (WBBM) - The Better Government Association is calling on Mayor Richard Daley to reverse his decision and properly fund the city's office of Inspector General.

On Monday, the mayor announced that despite the new responsibilities of the IG in monitoring compliance with the Shakman political hiring settlement, he would refuse to increase funding or personnel in the office.

The city settled the decades-long lawsuit filed by Michael Shakman that accused the city of illegal and corrupt politics and personnel practices.

As part of the settlement, City Inspector David Hoffman will assume primary responsibility for policing the hiring system and to make sure merit instead of loyalty governs the hiring process.

Hoffman asked for additional staff and resources but the mayor has refused to increase funding or personnel.

"For 18 years, the mayor has refused to lift a finger to stem the rising tide of corruption. Without a fully funded Inspector General's office, we have no reason to think he'll start now." said Jay Stewart, executive director of the BGA.

Daley's patronage chief Robert Sorich and three others were convicted of hiring in favor of those who supported the Mayor politically.