Leggett Throws Water on $65K Bathroom Flap

ROCKVILLE, Md. - In a bad budget year, some are asking why a $65,000 bathroom is being built near the office of Montgomery County Executive Ike Leggett.

But Leggett says don't blame him.

"It's nothing I asked for, nothing I necessarily wanted. It's for security reasons and that's it, I'm just following security."

Leggett says his security detail didn't want him using the public restroom because of the lack of security in the building.

As for spending $65,000 in a year he's slashing 225 jobs and education dollars, Leggett says it was paid for last year "so it has nothing to do with the current budget."

The bathroom includes a sitting room and shower.

An aide to Leggett says the shower would allow Leggett to attend evening events without driving home.

Leggett's predecessor, Doug Duncan originally had a private bathroom but soon used the space for an employee kitchenette. He then used the public restroom.

Leggett says that new bathroom will help keep him safe.

Montgomery County is dealing with $300 million budget shortfall.

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