Promising a leaner and more efficient Cook County government, Toni Preckwinkle took over the reigns as board president.
Promising a leaner and more efficient Cook County government, Toni Preckwinkle on Monday took over the reigns as board president.
The former Chicago alderman vowed to follow through with a 10 percent salary cut she promised for herself during the campaign.
She says her department will need to consolidate their operations as well, especially when it comes to procurement and information technology.
"We are going to make the government less expensive and more effective," she said.
Preckwinkle also promised to raise the veil of secrecy she said has shrouded county government for too long.
Preckwinkle is the first woman to be elected as Cook County President. The 63-year-old replaces Todd Stroger who served as head of the board since 2006.
She faces many challenges, including an almost $487 million budget deficit.
Preckwinkle was sworn in at 10 a.m. during a special meeting of the Cook County Board of Commissioners. An inaugural ceremony at the Chicago Cultural Center followed at 1:00 p.m.
Chicago Sun-Times: Toni Preckwinkle's First Speech as President
