Suburban lawmaker wants tollway information

SPRINGFIELD - A suburban lawmaker is joining the chorus of state politicians seeking financial information and answers from tollway officials.

On Wednesday, state Rep. Jack Franks, a Marengo Democrat, requested documents from the tollway regarding the agency's dealings with Wilton Partners, the private firm that redeveloped and operated the tollway oases. Wilton and the oases are now the subject of foreclosure proceedings and at last count still owed the tollway about $1.3 million in rent.

Franks also sought information about board-member benefits, terminated employees and consulting contracts.

"I wanted to get as much information as possible," said Franks, who admitted he wasn't exactly sure of Wilton's status with the tollway.

A spokeswoman for the tollway said she first learned of Franks' requests when the Daily Herald forwarded them to her for comment. She said the agency's Freedom of Information officer would be preparing a response to the lawmaker.

Next month, state lawmakers will assemble in Chicago to begin publicly examining the Wilton deal and other tollway sore spots. The meeting of the Illinois Senate State Government Committee is scheduled for 11 a.m., Sept. 9 at the James R. Thompson Center in downtown Chicago.