Elmhurst Official With Side Business Leaving

ELMHURST, IL – Paul Burris, Elmhurst's utility manager, is leaving after more than eight years with the city.

In late February, Patch published a story documenting how Burris frequently emails clients during regular work hours for his side business, OTM Environmental. At least once, Burris used a piece of city equipment at a client's facility.

On Friday, the city posted Burris' position on its website. According to the advertisement, the position's pay range is $108,548 to $162,822, with the higher number Burris' salary.

The circumstances of Burris' departure are unclear. As of Tuesday, he was still in his position. He did not return a message for comment Monday.

After Patch presented its information to the city in February, city spokeswoman Kassondra Schref said it was under review.

"While we understand the public interest in this matter, we want to emphasize that it is our policy not to comment on active employee reviews," Schref said in an email. "We are committed to conducting a thorough and fair assessment, as we prioritize the well-being and integrity of our employees while upholding the values and standards set by our organization."

In February, asked about his business' effect on his Elmhurst job, Burris said he receives no overtime or compensatory time off when he exceeds 40 hours.

"There are times that I come in early, stay late, take longer lunch breaks and take personal time off, all while assuming the duties of the position I hold with the City of Elmhurst are Priority one and are completed in a timely and efficient and effective manner," Burris said.

He said he is allowed half-hour unpaid breaks, which he sometimes breaks into smaller parts. He said he had "the right to work or talk to anyone I please at these times."