College of DuPage probe will continue despite top auditor's retirement
The retirement of the state's top auditor won't derail a sweeping probe of College of DuPage's operations, Illinois Auditor General Bill Holland said Wednesday.
Holland said he'll step down at the end of the year after about 22 years on the job, including roles as a central figure in the impeachment of Rod Blagojevich and as a former Democratic staff member who went on to win widespread respect from both parties as a fair watchdog over a sometimes-troubled state government.
"The state of Illinois is better because of his service, and I thank him for all the work he has done on behalf of the citizens of Illinois," Gov. Bruce Rauner said in a statement.
Lawmakers earlier this year directed Holland's office to audit College of DuPage after the school gave President Robert Breuder a $763,000 buyout deal.
The college has agreed to pay for the state's examination.
Holland said his office's scheduled audits will proceed as planned.
"A big one will be the College of DuPage," he said.
Lawmakers now will have to pick Holland's replacement for a 10-year term.