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CHICAGO (WLS) — Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas is pushing back against accusations from Tyler Technologies, a Texas firm hired to modernize Cook County’s property tax infrastructure.
Tyler Technologies has alleged that their staff encountered intimidation and threats from Pappas. In response, Maria Pappas asserts her actions are in the best interest of ensuring Cook County citizens receive their due funds.
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“There are 80,000 individuals who are owed $181 million, and I can’t simply write them a check,” Pappas explained.
In a detailed nine-page letter addressed to Pappas, which she shared with ABC7, the CEO of Tyler Technologies declared that the company will cease direct interactions with Pappas, citing continuous abusive and offensive conduct.
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“Seriously? What are they afraid of? Let me tell you what they’re afraid of. They’re afraid of me continually confronting them. I’ve written over 30 letters to Tyler asking for the cancellation of this contract. Ask the county board to do it, pointing out all of their defects, pointing out everything that they’ve done wrong, pointing out the fact that I can’t get the bills out, pointing out the fact that I can’t get the distributions out,” Pappas said.
The letter cited multiple exchanges Pappas allegedly had with Tyler’s leadership team, including a statement to attorney Abby Diaz where Pappas allegedly said, “You’re a [expletive] idiot. Can you speak English? Learn to speak English. I’m going to ruin you.”
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Pappas recalled her exchange with Diaz.
“I call Abby [Diaz], and I say, ‘Listen, I’m going over your head. I’m going to call the board of directors of Tyler and expose what’s going on here. Because I’ve had it. I’m not going to wait a second longer to get these $181 million worth of checks out to 80,000 people. What are you thinking?’” Pappas said.
The ABC7 I-Team previously reported on Tyler Technologies and massive county-wide delays for people waiting on property tax refund checks. Pappas said she has demanded answers and accountability. But the tech company accuses Pappas of deliberately sabotaging their project.
Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle said in a statement, in part, “The alleged language and conduct directed at Tyler Technologies by the Treasurer are troubling and unacceptable. Public officials are expected to lead with integrity, demonstrate respect, and uphold the highest ethical standards, fostering public confidence in government.”
The statement continues to say that the matter was referred to the Department of Ethics and Humans Rights for review. Pappas says she is not afraid, and this isn’t over until Tyler Technologies takes accountability and people can get their checks.
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