With a vote of 29-21, the Chicago City Council on Friday approved an ordinance granting Mayor Lori Lightfoot emergency powers during the coronavirus pandemic.
NBC 5 reported Wednesday that Lightfoot sought emergency powers when it comes to city spending and awarding contracts during the crisis. Some had questioned whether to give the mayor that authority.
"The people of Chicago did not vote for unilateral decisions, no matter who they were," 25th Ward Ald. Byron Sigcho Lopez said.
Lightfoot was not surprised by the pushback, though city officials believe a majority of the expenses incurred related to the pandemic will be reimbursed by the federal government.
Some aldermen say they trust the mayor - at least for now.
"Ultimately have faith in Mayor Lightfoot to be judicious with these special powers we are giving her," said 42nd Ward Ald. Brendan Reilly.
