Daley Security Detail to Be Cut in Half
By Chuck Sudo in News on Sep 13, 2011 2:12PM
Starting Thursday, former Mayor Richard M. Daley will have to get by with a security detail of three Chicago Police officers. Mayor Rahm Emanuel announced he would be cutting the Daley security detail in half, which has been a sore point with taxpayers, other politicians and the Fraternal Order of Police during a down economy and with the city facing a budget shortfall of epic proportions. Emanuel said he would reevaluate the Daley security detail, which he's always maintained was temporary, at the end of summer. Daley defended his decision to have a security detail after he left office at the time. "I’ve been mayor for 22 years, and my wife has made a commitment [to the city]. Former mayors received security appropriately. It’s appropriate for every former mayor. Yes, it’s always appropriate.”
The detail will also have access to two city vehicles, but only when necessary. Two of the three officers will be assigned to former Chicago First Lady Maggie Daley, who's battled health issues in recent years.
Some may not be happy with Emanuel's decision. Better Government Association Executive Director Andy Shaw said the move by Emanuel was a good start.
"We don’t have enough information to know whether there’s a legitimate security need. He was mayor for more than 20 years. A lot of city issues have bubbled to the surface in the last few years that can rightfully make taxpayers mad. I hope this is justified on security grounds and not as an expensive perk for an ex-mayor.”