The Watchdogs: The cost of public officials’ security details?

By CHRIS FUSCO Staff Reporter Dec 27, 2010

When Miguel del Valle took office as Chicago’s city clerk in December 2006, he immediately made clear he’d make one change: He would do without a perk enjoyed by his predecessors — his own police security detail.

Given that his duties involve things like handling vehicle stickers, keeping City Council records and licensing dogs, del Valle — now running for mayor — “felt it was unnecessary to use taxpayers’ dollars for a police security detail and a driver,” says Kristine Williams, his spokeswoman.

Four other city officials, though, do have the taxpayer-funded bodyguards. They include Mayor Daley, city Treasurer Stephanie Neely and Ald. Edward M. Burke (14th), chairman of the City Council’s Finance Committee.

And the fourth? The police won’t say.

The cost to Chicago taxpayers: at least $4.6 million last year, city records show.

via The Watchdogs: The cost of public officials’ security details? – Chicago Sun-Times.