12/15/99
The Chicago Transit Board today authorized the creation of an Office of Inspector General and hired Laurie J. Barsella, a former U.S. Dept. of Justice attorney, to head it up.
The intent of the Inspector General's Office is to promote economy, efficiency and integrity in the administration of the programs and operations of the Chicago Transit Authority by reviewing programs, identifying any inefficiencies, waste and potential for misconduct and recommending policies and methods to prevent and eliminate any such inefficiencies, waste or misconduct. The Office will also have the responsibility of receiving, registering and investigating complaints or information concerning waste, fraud and abuse within the Authority. The existing internal audit unit will become part of the Inspector General's Office and an investigative arm will be established.
"The Chicago Transit Board takes seriously its responsibility for fiscal oversight of the Authority," said Chairman Valerie Jarrett. ?The Inspector General will be a vital tool for both the board and management to strengthen our vigilance."
The IG office was created now due to the substantial increase in capital funding the CTA expects over the next five years. ?We are embarking on a very ambitious rebuilding program," said CTA President Frank Kruesi. ?The Inspector General's Office will be an important resource to help us monitor our expenditures."
Laurie Barsella was appointed to a four-year term as Inspector General at a salary of $118,000. She?ll begin work in January. Most recently she worked for the U.S. Department of Justice as Senior Counsel for International Law Enforcement Matters at the American Embassy in Rome, Italy. She graduated with Highest Distinction from Northwestern University in Evanston and is a graduate of Northwestern University School of Law.
"Ms. Barsella has outstanding credentials. We are fortunate to have an expert of her caliber joining our team," said Jarrett.
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