(WJBC File Photo)
By Howard Packowitz
BLOOMINGTON – Even if a month’s medical leave was not long enough, Bloomington Mayor Tari Renner said he has no choice but return to his post this weekend because so many critical issues are facing the city.
Speaking with our news partner, WMBD-TV, Renner said, “stuff is hitting the fan” as the city council looks to replace City Manager David Hales. Streets and infrastructure work needs to be done, and decisions need to be made on a downtown library, and how to revive Eastland Mall and other under-performing areas, according to the mayor.
“There are certain things now that have to be done. I need to be back,” the Mayor said.
“I feel I got a little bit of a breather, a little bit more perspective, and I think I’ll handle these things much more effectively than I would have if I felt I was constantly under pressure. And, you are constantly under pressure,” Renner remarked.
The Mayor said he has a Type A personality, and was feeling the stress of a part-time elected office with full-time duties.
He said his leave of absence had nothing to do with a pending Illinois State Police investigation into the use of a city credit card to pay for his girlfriend to accompany him to Bloomington-Normal’s Japanese Sister City.
Renner contends his girlfriend reimbursed the city for the cost of the flight.
Howard Packowitz can be reached at [email protected]
