Cook County Board Meeting, May 18, 2010

Todd Stroger, President of the Cook County Board of Commissioners, said the May 4, 2010 ordinance limiting some of his powers regarding personnel violates the statutory and Constitutional authority of the President of the Cook County Board. He stated that the Ordinance is an unconstitutional attempt to alter the form of County government. A long discussion followed and a vote was taken over whether to override Stroger's veto of the May 4th statutory that limits his hiring. The tally was 9 to 6, failing to override his veto because eleven votes would be required.

Questions were raised, including, Does the override apply to the new President? Is there an expiration date at the end of the fiscal year? The questions were not answered or resolved.

The County has a significant revenue shortfall. It may be over $50 to $70 million. There has been a sales tax roll back of 1/2 of l per cent. The budget will be reduced so a deficit will not be expected. There will be an effort to increase revenue.

Oak Forest and Provident Hospital have had a severe drop in patients. Mr. Foley reported that the staff at Oak Forest has been reduced from 934 to 743. The staff will continue to be reduced and the outpatient clinics will be redesigned. Oak Forest has only sixty in-house patients. There have been 30,000 outpatient visits this past year. There has been a 33% revenue shortfall and a deficit of $l5 million dollars. A new contact has been made with Price-Waterhouse. All salaries for Grade 24 positions must remain fixed or adjusted by the Board of Commissioners.

Submitted by Arline Doblin