Audit spurs call for state to dump Pepsi pact

SPRINGFIELD -- Several lawmakers said the state should scrap its exclusive soft drink deal with Pepsi and take bids again after an audit released Thursday detailed how Illinois was sloppy with securing the contract in 2007.

Auditor General William Holland's report said the Revenue Department failed to properly document choices made by a nine-person committee in its selection of Pepsi over Coca-Cola. The report said entering into the contract might not have been in the state's best interest.

» Click to enlarge image

The deal then-Gov. Rod Blagojevich's administration made in 2007 with Pepsi was wrought with problems, Auditor General William Holland said in a report Thursday.
(Scott Stewart/Sun-Times/AP)

RELATED STORIES

BLAGO WANTED CASH FROM ZELL

"It's indicative how everything was done fast and loose," said Rep. Jack Franks (D-Woodstock), referring to Rod Blagojevich's time as governor. "I'm not saying there's corruption here. But there's certainly incompetence."

Illinois is set to take in $64 million from the deal over the next 10 years, while Pepsi will net roughly $142 million, said Sue Hofer, Revenue Department spokeswoman.