Yorkville Office of Former House Speaker at Center of Investigation

A Yorkville office used by former Speaker of the House Dennis Hastert is at the center of a Chicago Tribune investigation.

As a former Speaker of the House Hastert is allowed to maintain a government-funded office for up to five years to wrap up any pending issues stemming from his tenure.  Former Speakers are not permitted to use the office for financial gain.

However, an investigation by the Chicago Tribune revealed a secretary in Hastert's office "used email to coordinate some of his private business meetings and travel, and conducted research on one proposed venture."

A Burr Ridge businessman identified as J. David John by the Tribune also said he met with Hastert at the office to discuss business matters.

Hastert, an Illinois Republican, who became a lobbyist after leaving Congress in 2007, has denied any misuse of the office.

Hastert's office is located in the 700 block of John Street in Yorkville.

According to an earlier report by the Tribune the office is run by three of Hastert's former staffers at salaries of more than $100,000 each. According to the story the office has an annual budget of approximately $500,000.

A 2009 Politico article indicates rent for the office space is $6,300 per month.

Editor's Note: The Chicago Tribune now requires a digital subscription to read the entire story.