Fed up with corruption, Harvey aldermen ask state, federal officials for help

HARVEY, Ill. (WLS) -- Some aldermen in south suburban Harvey say they are fed up with the corruption, so they wrote a letter asking state and federal officials - even President Obama - to step in.

Harvey's City Council meets for its regular meeting Monday night, but there doesn't appear to be much optimism about getting much accomplished with a division in City Hall.

"They should make sure that their priorities are in order, that the city is running smooth and they're working with the mayor. I think we are getting into personal things," resident Ruby Morris said.

Some aldermen sent a letter to state and federal officials asking for help.

"Moving forward, it's difficult to generate the economic engine that we need. It's difficult to generate the industry that we need if we don't know ourselves what we are doing," said Ald. Christopher Clark, 3rd Ward.

Ald. Clark drafted the letter and lists some previous challenges to Harvey officials. He gives the example of wanting to make sure payments made by the city are appropriate.

"We need to see those invoices and we would be irresponsible in our fiduciary duty to the citizens if we did not check it out," Ald. Clark said.

"Personally, it's a sore spot," said Ald. Keith Price, 6th Ward.

Ald. Price says the letter highlights old news and hinders new business.

"You wanted to be an elected official. You're elected, now use your legislative powers to accomplish what needs to be done for the betterment of the city," he said.

ABC7 reached out to several of the agencies named in the open letter. Some had not seen the letter. However, the Illinois Comptroller's office said it has been working with the city of Harvey to get its past financial audits in order. The Illinois Attorney General's office said it is reviewing the letter.