An alert tipster just sent me documents detailing the City Colleges of Chicago's decision to lease a $736 per month Chevy Tahoe for the district's chancellor.
Our tipster poses two questions. What is it about expensive leased vehicles that top public officials love so much? And wouldn't taxpayers would be better off simply reimbursing officials for mileage on their personal vehicles?
The answer to question #1 is easy: Who doesn't like a free car (other than the people paying for it?). The answer to question #2 is undoubtably yes, but the vehicles have are something of an expected perk for top public officials.
These leases have become a hot topic lately, with Chicago Public Schools chief Ron Huberman under fire for the two vehicles the district leases for him.
Alderman Ed Burke hasn't escaped scrutiny, either.
The leases look especially funny considering the plummeting state revenues that are causing financial chaos at government agencies, including CPS and the City Colleges face.
Perry Buckley, head of the union representing City Colleges professors, says the district has laid off some workers this year, and the financial picture continues to look grim.
Even so, he doesn't begrudge chancellor Cheryl Hyman her new ride, noting that she drivers herself instead of relying on the chauffeur used by her predecessor.
"I really don't think it's too far out of line," says Buckley.
What do you think?