By Bill Cameron, WLS News
(CHICAGO) During Chicago budget hearings today at city hall, Mayor Rahm Emanuel’s plan to privatize the 311 non-emergency phone system was taking some heat.

Some of the aldermen are afraid Chicagoans they helped put on the 311 payroll are going to be replaced by operators working from another state or even another country.

Listen to influential Alderman Michelle Harris trying to be diplomatic about it with the man who’s going to guide the privatization, Gary Schenkle.

“So I would like to strongly challenge you to look at possibilities that include keeping all the 311 employees while updating our antiquated system,” said Ald. Harris.

Schenkle responded, “I totally agree with you, I think that is part of the comprehensive review.”

Alderman Harris replied, “So I would like to strongly suggest that we save the human part of it. Thank you.”

“Yes, ma’am,” said Schenkle.

Notice there, how Mr. Schenkle is not promising to do anything.

@ 2015 WLS News