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His colleagues seemed pretty sure that stuff all sounded good, if not altogether familiar. But as Allen went on to say that his ordinance would require a review period of 30 days before the city cut any more big privatization deals, he set off a vigorous debate about the merits of the meter deal they rubber-stamped six months ago as well as the wisest, fastest way to cover their asses for it.
The parking meters have become such a political problem out in the neighborhoods that even Mayor Daley’s most loyal aldermen are feeling exposed.
That inspired guffaws.
Eventually the conversation shifted back to Saffold. Scott Waguespack wanted to know why aldermen hadn’t been shown the city’s financial analysis of the meter deal before being asked to approve it. “Can you make a definitive statement today on what information you think can be shared with the City Council before a vote on a major asset sale?”
Smith said something had to change because too many people were too pissed off. “We are getting beat to death on this parking meter deal,” he said. Voters “are really giving it to us because it appears some mistakes were made.”
