Daley seeks to avoid testifying in restaurant case

Former Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley is seeking to avoid testifying during the trial of the city's lawsuit seeking to break the long-term agreement for a restaurant in Millennium Park.

Crain's Chicago Business reports attorneys for Daley say in a motion filed in Cook County Circuit Court his appearance at trial would present a "medical hardship."

Earlier this year Daley suffered symptoms similar to a stroke during business trip and spent several days in the hospital.

In seeking to void a 30-year contract to operate Park Grill, Mayor Rahm Emanuel's administration alleges a former Chicago Park District official "unduly and unfairly influenced" the process that led to a friend operating the restaurant.

Daley's testimony was expected to be a highlight of the trial, which began in April.