Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson’s CFO Ashlee Gabrysch Resigns as Aldermen Seek Finance Investigation

CHICAGO (WLS) — Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson’s chief financial officer has resigned, just three months after taking the position.

Ashlee Gabrysch’s resignation is effective immediately, according to the mayor’s office.

In a statement, the mayor’s office said Chicago is facing a serious budget crisis after decades of mismanagement. Officials also raised concerns about Gabrysch’s limited involvement during critical stages of the city’s budget preparation and her decision to direct the city treasurer to issue a $75 million payment without what the administration described as proper legal authority or required procedures.

The statement said the administration made several attempts to meet with Gabrysch about the payment, including shortly before her public resignation, but those efforts did not result in a meeting. The matter will be referred to the city’s Office of Inspector General for an independent review.

Earlier this week, a majority of alderpersons sent the mayor a letter saying they would not support his budget in its current form.

Following Friday’s announcement, several aldermen are calling for an investigation into how the mayor’s office is managing the city’s finances.

This is a developing story. Check back with ABC7 Chicago for updates.