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Mayor Brandon Johnson's chief financial officer resigns
Chicago Tribune • • nation
Key Points:
- Ashlee Gabrysch resigned as Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson’s CFO after three months, citing inability to provide "complete and accurate" financial statements under current conditions amid budget stalemate with aldermen.
- Gabrysch raised concerns about the administration’s handling and public reporting of the city’s deficit, disputing the mayor’s adjusted budget gap figure and emphasizing the need for transparency and financial integrity.
- Johnson’s office accused Gabrysch of ethical breaches, including directing a $75 million pension payment without proper legal authority, prompting a referral to the City’s Office of Inspector General for review.
- The resignation marks continued leadership instability in Chicago’s financial management, with no permanent CFO or budget director as the city faces a serious budget crisis and credit rating risks.
- City council members, including Finance Committee chair Ald. Pat Dowell, called for an independent audit and investigation into the city’s finances following Gabrysch’s allegations and departure.
