Taxpayers pay for beer, ride home at public agency's party

Chicago Sun-Times
Aug. 17, 2005

he beer was provided at taxpayer expense.

So was the ride home.

The executive director of the Justice-Willow Springs Water Commission -- a public agency that oversees water service in part of the southwest suburbs -- got so drunk during a recent work party, he couldn't drive home, officials said Tuesday.

So Peter Newman, who makes $60,000 a year, was driven home by a co-worker in an agency vehicle.

Newman was suspended for four days after the Aug. 6 incident, according to the commission's governing board, and he's now on probation.

"Four days?!" said Cook County Commissioner Liz Gorman, who was among those sent an anonymous letter detailing the incident. "A four-day suspension for something like this sounds like friends covering up for friends."

Newman, who has worked for the agency for 16 months, also is undergoing counseling, said Sean McDermott, one of three members of the water commission's board.

"We thought this was the appropriate way to handle it," said McDermott, appointed to his post by Cook County Board President John Stroger.

But Gorman and Commissioner Tony Peraica -- both of whom represent parts of the water commission's turf -- urged Stroger to conduct "a full and complete investigation" into allegations raised in the letter.

'Falling down drunk'

It includes several allegations, including Newman's "falling down drunk" behavior at the party, which he attended with his family.

Newman did not return calls.

The water board approved a party for employees of the agency and their families. It included a jumping gym, food and beverages -- including beer -- provided at taxpayer expense. McDermott said Newman brought supplies in an agency van, later used to take Newman home.

McDermott said all of Newman's activity took place after the picnic officially ended, though many people stayed late. McDermott said the board couldn't find proof of some allegations. "But he admits he wasn't in the greatest condition, either," he said.