Nov. 28--Republican Gov.-elect Bruce Rauner said Thursday he intends to use some of his own money to make needed improvements to the executive mansion in Springfield, where he said he and his wife intend to "spend the vast majority of our time."
"I will, personally, Diana and I, will donate to improve the governor's residence. We will also raise private funds to improve the building itself," Rauner said in response to a reporter's question at a Lawndale facility that assists the homeless and offers substance abuse treatment. The Rauners donned hairnets and protective gloves as they delivered Thanksgiving lunch -- plates piled high with cornbread and turkey -- to shelter residents and others.
The executive mansion has been "neglected and mistreated over the years," Rauner also said. "We should treat that residence with respect."
The Rauners last week toured the mansion, which has major water damage following years of neglect. State officials this summer said they were deferring significant repairs. The scope of repairs needed and their cost are unclear. Rauner did not say how much money he intends to raise or donate himself to make fixes.
The nonprofit that the Rauners visited Thursday, A Safe Haven, is run by Neli Vazquez Rowland, whom Rauner chose recently as a co-chair of his health care and human services policy transition committee. Vazquez Rowland and Republican U.S. Sen. Mark Kirk visited the center along with the governor-elect.
In between handing out meals, Bruce Rauner addressed the crowd while standing with his wife, saying "we are here to go to work for you and we want to say thank you. God bless you. We look forward to working together with you in the coming years."
Rauner, an investment banker from Winnetka, will be inaugurated Jan. 12. He defeated Democratic Gov. Pat Quinn in the Nov. 4 election.
The crowd of more than 100 welcomed the Rauners, with some chasing them down for pictures.
mmanchir@tribpub.com
Twitter @mmanchir
