PRESS RELEASE: ALD. VASQUEZ CALLS FOR AUDIT OF CPD IN BUDGET REFORM PACKAGE

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

December 10th, 2025

ALD. VASQUEZ CALLS FOR AUDIT OF CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT IN COMPREHENSIVE BUDGET REFORM PACKAGE

CHICAGO, IL — Ald. Andre Vasquez introduced legislation as part of this year's budget process calling for an independent audit of CPD, regular hearings on police misconduct settlement trends, and a host of other budget reforms.

“When we are dealing with this level of financial crisis, we have to look at our largest line items first," Ald. Vasquez said. "The Chicago Police Department represents over half of our corporate fund dollars. An independent forensic audit of CPD will ensure we're doing our job of oversight by making sure those funds are being spent effectively and efficiently."

Also included in the amendment is a requirement for bi-monthly hearings on police misconduct trends and settlements. "Spending on police misconduct settlements has ballooned in the past five years," said Vasquez. "When Chicagoans have their civil rights violated, they deserve to be compensated. But we would not be doing our job as elected officials if we don't regularly and proactively examine trends in police misconduct, and ask questions of CPD about how they are addressing these issues in real time."

The budget reform package also includes increased transparency requirements for the data and information City Council members receive in quarterly, mid-year, and annual budget reports, so City Council is better equipped to perform its function of budget oversight (see the one-pager for a full breakdown on what requirements are included in the amendments).

"In the past two years, we've seen what happens when City Council members aren't fully equipped with the information we need to thoroughly examine and interrogate the City budget, and propose alternative solutions where necessary. We have been elected by the people of Chicago to represent their concerns when it comes to how this city spends taxpayer dollars. In order to do that, we need to make sure we have all of the information on how those funds are being spent. We owe it to the people of Chicago."

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Questions/media requests: Alison Murphy, 773-999-3319, [email protected]