Skip to main content

Stay in the know. Subscribe to the OIG Bulletin.

Advisory Concerning Inequities in Chicago’s Residential Street Infrastructure Management

June 13, 2019

Summary

A 2017 audit by the Office of Inspector General (OIG) found that the City perpetuates significant inequities between wards and underfunds residential street infrastructure needs by approximately $228.8 million annually, primarily because it does not follow best practices for multi-year capital planning.

Executive Summary

A 2017 audit by the Office of Inspector General (OIG) found that the City perpetuates significant inequities between wards and underfunds residential street infrastructure needs by approximately $228.8 million annually, primarily because it does not follow best practices for multi-year capital planning. The previous administration disagreed with our findings and declined to reform its residential street infrastructure management. Below, we summarize OIG’s audit findings and urge you implement the recommendations.

  1. The Aldermanic Menu Program Creates Significant Funding Inequities, Including A Gap Of $9.3 Million Between the Best- And Worst-Funded Wards.
  2. Menu Underfunds Citywide Residential Infrastructure Needs By $228.8 Million Annually.
  3. The City Allows Aldermen to Spend Menu Funds on Projects Other Than Residential Street Infrastructure.
  4. The City Does Not Follow Best Practices for Multiyear Capital Planning of Residential Street Infrastructure.
  5. OIG Suggestions
Advisory Concerning Inequities in Chicago’s Residential Street Infrastructure Management - publication cover