NBC Chicago aligns with BGA on Tri-State FPD decisions
NBC Chicago recently published an article along with a video segment scrutinizing the decisions made by the Tri-State Fire Protection District (FPD) board of trustees regarding the recent retirement of Fire Chief Michelle Gibson. The article raises concerns about transparency and potential conflicts of interest within the board.
The recently departed fire chief has left many questions unanswered as she stepped down from her position. Michelle Gibson, who was in a civil union with Jill Strenzel—one of her superiors and one of the three trustees overseeing the fire district—resigned after a lengthy investigation conducted by the Better Government Association and NBC 5 Investigates. This probe highlighted a significant rise in expenditures on equipment, entertainment, and legal costs over the past six years since Gibson was promoted to chief. Notably, the trustees, including Gibson's life partner, had approved each year's budget.
Two weeks prior to her resignation, Strenzel and her fellow trustees unanimously agreed on a retirement package that would pay the outgoing chief approximately $136,000 at the end of the year. This sum primarily covers unused sick days and vacation time. Attorney Shawn Collins, an expert in employment contracts and disputes, reviewed the arrangement and described it as "absurd." He remarked that he has never encountered a situation where someone would be compensated for an unused sick day dating back to 1989. Collins further suggested that the Tri-State Fire District appears to function more like a "private family business" where individuals who know each other decide how to distribute funds.
Following the investigation, Gibson chose to step down. In response to inquiries from BGA investigator Katie Drews about the retirement agreement, the newly appointed fire chief, Jack Mancione, responded via email stating that the trustees believe the payout is "fair and reasonable to the taxpayers."
Jim Durkin, the House Republican leader representing the area, expressed concern over the situation, labeling it as a call for greater public accountability.
I want to thank multiple sources for providing valuable insights into this matter. For additional context, you can revisit previous posts [HERE], [HERE], and [HERE].
This situation highlights the need for increased transparency and ethical oversight within local government bodies. It serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining public trust and ensuring that decision-making processes are fair and transparent.
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