Chicago’s chief financial officer, Ashlee Gabrysch, resigned abruptly on Friday, stating that remaining in her role would require her to compromise her integrity and professional obligations. In a statement reported by the Chicago Tribune, Gabrysch said she could not accurately provide the public with information about the city’s budget and finances.
Mayor and council react
Mayor Brandon Johnson’s press office confirmed the resignation and noted that Gabrysch had been “largely absent” while the 2027 budget proposal was being prepared. The mayor’s office also said she recently attempted to make a $75 million payment without “proper legal authority.” In response, the mayor announced that the matter would be referred to the city’s Office of Inspector General for an independent review.
Mayor Johnson’s office added, “We welcome a full review of the conduct at issue.” The statement placed the administration’s response near the top of the coverage, emphasizing transparency and accountability.
Aldermen demand audits
Several alderpersons have called for further scrutiny. Alderman Bill Conway (34th) urged the inspector general to begin an immediate investigation, alleging that the mayor’s office may have asked the CFO to present false information. “If Mayor Johnson asked his CFO to act or speak dishonestly, that is a shocking act against taxpayers and potentially criminal fraud,” Conway said.
Finance Chair Alderman Pat Dowell (3rd) also called for an “independent audit” of the city’s finances, according to Crain’s. The calls come amid a contentious budget season, with the mayor’s proposed head tax and an increase to the Personal Property Lease Tax (PPLT) facing strong opposition from a council majority.
Gabrysch stands by her values
In a new statement, Gabrysch reiterated her earlier remarks, saying she will continue to operate in accordance with her values and integrity. She criticized the administration’s handling of the situation, calling it “disappointing but not surprising.”
Interim leadership
City Comptroller Michael Belsky will serve as acting CFO effective immediately. Belsky expressed disappointment at Gabrysch’s departure but defended the mayor’s handling of the budget, stating, “In my time with the city, the Mayor and his team have been extremely transparent, open, and honest with the public and City Council about the city’s fiscal position. Any suggestion to the contrary is simply incorrect.”
Political fallout
The resignation has intensified criticism of the Johnson administration. Council members opposing the mayor’s budget proposals described the situation as a “five‑alarm fire,” questioning the administration’s ability to manage the city’s finances. Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, a mayoral challenger, said the mayor “owes the taxpayers an immediate explanation.” Former state comptroller Susana Mendoza, also running for mayor, warned that the “pace of financial professionals fleeing this mayoral administration” is an alarming sign for Chicagoans.
Budget implications
Regardless of the controversy, the city’s budget clock continues to tick. The City Council must approve a balanced spending plan by year‑end. Mayor Johnson’s proposals include raising the PPLT rate from 15 percent to 20 percent, potentially generating about $234 million, and adjusting the lease tax structure for vehicle leases and film/television productions. The mayor indicated he may tweak aspects of both proposals, though details remain pending.
With the CFO’s resignation adding uncertainty, city officials and residents alike will be watching closely as Chicago works to finalize its 2027 fiscal plan.
Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.
