...Schuler concluded Camelot first won “behind-the-scenes access” to Byrd-Bennett and top staff plus “confidential inside information” with help from Gary Solomon and Thomas Vranas — two consultants who served as Camelot’s “undisclosed lobbyists” before they were indicted and convicted in federal court alongside Byrd-Bennett for organizing a kickback scheme that upended the district.
Schuler’s report does not allege any criminal behavior occurred as part of the Camelot case.
“We’re alleging ethical violations and procurement violations,” Schuler told the Tribune.
But the IG’s investigation illustrates how Byrd-Bennett’s disgraced administration continues to reverberate in a school system that’s sought to clean up its reputation for crisis and scandal. It also shows how a murky array of lobbyists, attorneys and consultants can influence the awarding of public contracts with minimal oversight.
CPS pledged Monday to strengthen vendors’ requirements to report lobbying activity, and also to launch a process that, following the inspector general’s recommendations, may sanction Camelot or disqualify the company from future business with the district...
CPS pledged Monday to strengthen vendors’ requirements to report lobbying activity, and also to launch a process that, following the inspector general’s recommendations, may sanction Camelot or disqualify the company from future business with the district...
Gee. If only we had an IG.
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