The Association of Inspectors General (AIG) has endorsed a proposal to establish a budgetary floor for the Cook County Office of Independent Inspector General (OIIG). In a letter to the Board of Commissioners, AIG emphasized the importance of securing stable and transparent funding to uphold the OIIG’s independence and operational effectiveness. Recognizing that financial security is essential for effective oversight, AIG supports this initiative as a best practice aligned with its Principles and Standards for Offices of Inspector General. This measure would strengthen public trust in Cook County government by ensuring consistent oversight, accountability, and transparency.
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April 2, 2025
Chairman Daley and Members of the Board of Commissioners:
The Association of Inspectors General (AIG) is an independent, non-partisan 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to promoting adherence to quality standards and encouraging governmental entities to adopt the inspector general model as an effective tool to combat waste, fraud, and abuse. With over 2,500 members serving in Inspector General (IG) offices across the United States and internationally, the AIG has spent nearly 30 years advancing best practices and fostering independent oversight in government.
The Principles and Standards for Offices of Inspector General adopted by the Association of Inspectors General emphasizes that IG offices should be funded through mechanisms that ensure adequate resources without internal or external impairments to their independence. Various jurisdictions have achieved this through dedicated revenue streams or funding formulas tied to total revenue or expenses.
At the request of the Cook County Office of Independent Inspector General (OIIG), the AIG has reviewed a proposal for establishing a budgetary floor to secure consistent and transparent funding for the OIIG. We believe this measure aligns with recognized best practices and supports the AIG's established standards for independent oversight offices.
Establishing a budgetary floor will enhance the OIIG's ability to perform its legislated duties without undue budgetary pressures, ensuring accountability, transparency, and operational stability. This approach not only safeguards the OIIG's independence but also strengthens public trust in the county government.
The citizens of Cook County deserve an adequately funded OIIG that can effectively fulfill its oversight responsibilities in any budget environment. OIGs frequently demonstrate financial benefits that surpass their costs, and their presence enhances accountability and transparency, bolstering public confidence in government operations.
Should the AIG be of any service during the process of establishing funding processes, please feel free to contact Executive Director Michael Castrilli at mcastrilli@inspectorsgeneral.org.
Sincerely,
Will Fletcher
President, Association of Inspectors General
