Durbin intervenes in Metra scandal

U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin has asked the U.S. Department of Transportation's inspector general to intervene in a Metra investigation into whether its executive director misused funds.

Philip Pagano is on paid leave from Metra while an outside attorney examines so-called financial irregularities including allegations about an unapproved $56,000 bonus.

With Metra receiving millions of dollars in federal funding each year, "passengers deserve to know their tax dollars are being spent wisely," Durbin wrote to U.S. DOT Inspector General Calvin Scovel.

Durbin asked Scovel to check if any federal funds had been used in an unauthorized way.

In the meantime, the Federal Transit Authority has temporarily increased its oversight of Metra's access to federal funds, Durbin said.

Metra Chairman Carole Doris said the agency was ready and willing to cooperate with the FTA and inspector general.

"Metra will comply with any enhanced reporting requirements deemed appropriate by the agency. We are determined not to allow any adverse impact on critical commuter rail service to this region," she said via e-mail.

Pagano has not commented on the issue since it surfaced.

Executive director since 1990, Pagano appeared to be in the good graces of Metra board directors until questions emerged about potential misconduct sparking an inquiry by Doris last month.

He was placed on a two-week leave April 30, which prohibits him from conducting business on behalf of Metra, contacting employees and returning to work unless permitted. Pagano was required to turn over any Metra property, keys, and credit cars. He agreed to stay in the six-county region during regular businesses hours while the investigation continues to assist with any Metra business. He will still be paid his $269,600 salary during the term of the suspension.