* From the Illinois Republican Party…
Yesterday, despite having very little experience in sports and over the strong objections of several board members, Governor Quinn’s campaign manager, Lou Bertuca, was given a six-figure job to run the Illinois Sports Facilities Authority.
Today, the Illinois Finance Authority is preparing to give Quinn crony, Chris Meister, an extension on his contract running the agency. Meister is also a close friend of Jack Lavin.
The Illinois Finance Authority is filled with Quinn pals. The Chairman, William Brandt, is a Quinn friend and donor who gave Paul Vallas a six-figure job so he could run for Lt. Governor.
“It is shameful that Governor Quinn would prefer his legacy be one of giving insider deals and jobs to cronies and friends rather than holding his head high and exiting government in a responsible fashion.” – ILGOP Chairman Tim Schneider
I was sent the IFA’s agenda yesterday and forwarded it to the Rauner transition to let them know I was working on this story.
* Chairman Brandt called me last night in response to my request for comment. He pointed to the state statute…
From nominations received from the Governor, the members of the Authority shall appoint an Executive Director who shall be a person knowledgeable in the areas of financial markets and instruments, to hold office for a one-year term. The Executive Director shall be the chief administrative and operational officer of the Authority and shall direct and supervise its administrative affairs and general management
Brandt said Director Meister’s term expires this month. The Authority can’t implement the bond sales the board approves without an executive director, Brandt said. They’re doing about $788 million in bond approvals at today’s meeting alone.
So, the ILGOP press release may be just a false alarm.
*** UPDATE *** Chairman Brandt just called to say that Meister agreed today at the board meeting that if and when the incoming governor or member of the governor’s administration requests Meister’s departure, he would do so immediately.
