DAVID ORR AND DICK SIMPSON PEN OPEN LETTER URGING CITY COUNCIL TO ADOPT MAYORAL EMERGENCY POWERS ORDINANCE
CHICAGO, Illinois (April 23, 2020) -- Today, former Aldermen Dick Simpson and David Orr sent a letter to all members of the Chicago City Council, urging them to vote in favor of granting emergency powers to Mayor Lori Lightfoot during the COVID-19 pandemic at Friday's City Council meeting. The open letter appears below.
Dear Members of the City Council, As you know, Chicago is facing an extraordinary emergency with COVID-19. Mayor Lori Lightfoot is asking for, and frankly requires, emergency powers to procure the necessary PPE for our front-line workers and life-saving equipment for those stricken with this virus. These are not ordinary times. As lawmakers know, the normal contracting process can be slow, and we risk losing valuable time in securing materials that could save lives. To make matters worse, the Trump Administration is actively competing against states and localities for these critical supplies, and so we must remove any roadblocks that limit the speed at which we can secure acquisitions to save lives. We believe emergency powers for the Mayor are essential, as long as there are protections. The ordinance provides those protections, including 1) regular updates to the City Council, 2) a limit on dollar amounts, and 3) a termination date of June 30, 2020. It is important that this extraordinary step be taken by legislative action, with the advice and consent of the City Council. Thank you for your consideration. Former Aldermen Dick Simpson David Orr
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ABOUT GOOD GOVERNMENT ILLINOIS
Good Government Illinois is a political action committee which is dedicated to protecting our democracy, expanding government efficiencies, and promoting transparency and accountability. Founded in 2018 by former Cook County Clerk David Orr, Good Government Illinois is developing a larger group of progressive advisors who will help move Illinois forward by recruiting, supporting, and electing progressive candidates who share these values. www.goodgovernmentillinois.com