Chicago CFO Resigns Amid $75 Million Payment Dispute

Chicago CFO Ashlee Gabrysch resigned after about three months, saying she could not provide complete and accurate financial information without compromising her integrity. Mayor Brandon Johnson’s office accepted her resignation, accused her of being absent during key budget work and directing a $75 million payment before it was legally authorized, and said it would refer the matter to the inspector general. Gabrysch has not publicly specified what circumstances prompted her concerns. The departure comes amid a contentious budget process, including opposition from 28 aldermen to Johnson’s proposed FY2027 budget, and calls for an investigation or outside audit; Chicago also faces an $882 million deficit. It is the latest in a series of senior finance departures, raising concerns about continuity, investor confidence and the city’s bond rating. Comptroller Michael Belsky will serve as acting CFO.