Chicago needs a reorg

The organization of Chicago city government is antiquated, costing taxpayers megabucks and fostering corruption. Chicago could solve many of its problems if it organized itself differently, in a form that exists in most Chicago suburbs.

Have a council of nine to 11 elected members serving as legislators and policymakers with an elected mayor — instead of the current 50 aldermen who act as both legislators and administrators.

Don’t have gerrymandered wards. Hire employees based on merit, not patronage or nepotism. Create a strong code of ethics for all city officials, elected and appointed. Have a professional chief administrative officer, appointed by the mayor and council, who handles all administrative duties.

Use Phoenix or San Antonio, Texas, as a guide for the reorganization.

— Robert B. Morris, Evanston