State wants COD to pay for its own audit
Suburban state lawmakers today sent the College of DuPage board's chairwoman a letter asking the board to both comply with a deeper audit than previously proposed and shoulder the six-figure price tag.
Previously, state Rep. Jeanne Ives, a Wheaton Republican, had called for a probe of the college's finances by the state's top auditor. The $762,868 severance package given to outgoing COD President Robert Breuder has sparked a flurry of legislative action aimed at the college.
Before lawmakers can approve the a state audit, though, they want the college's board to agree to Illinois Auditor General Bill Holland's requests to turn over information and pay for the probe, which could cost as much as $234,000.
"We would ask at this time that you confirm in writing the willingness of the College of DuPage to agree to these conditions," the letter reads. It was signed by 12 suburban lawmakers.
Previously, the college said it's prepared for an audit, but Ives said the latest investigation lawmakers are asking for would go deeper and be more costly.
"Rather than wait for the conclusion of the legislative process, this letter is formally requesting that your office conduct this audit at your earliest possible date," COD Senior Vice President of Administration Thomas Glaser previously wrote to Holland's office.
Ives argues a state audit could help restore faith in the college's leadership.
"That's why this is so essential," she said.