Residents of Dolton, Illinois, expressed their frustrations and demanded accountability from Mayor Tiffany Henyard during a heated board meeting on Monday night. The meeting, characterized by interruptions, disorganization, shouting, and ejections, saw residents questioning government spending and the overall management of the village.
Security was tight at the meeting, with attendees required to pass through metal detectors manned by Dolton police officers and Cook County Sheriff's deputies. Several individuals were escorted out by police after being deemed 'out of order' by Mayor Henyard.
One resident, speaking during the public comment period, criticized the current state of affairs in the village, stating, 'This village deserves so much more than it’s getting. From an outsider looking in, you’re being hoodwinked, bamboozled and led astray.'
Mayor Henyard has faced severe criticism, being labeled the 'worst mayor in America' by detractors. Allegations of financial misconduct, misuse of police resources, and a scandal involving an alleged sexual assault by one of her associates during a trip to Las Vegas have further fueled public outrage. Additionally, her cancer charity is under scrutiny for potential improprieties.
Former Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot was appointed as a special investigator to probe Mayor Henyard's actions. The investigation's findings, expected to be released soon, may reveal significant financial challenges for the village, potentially jeopardizing its ability to meet payroll obligations.
During the meeting, a credit card spending freeze was approved to curb excessive expenditures. Trustee Michael McGrath highlighted rampant credit card misuse, citing exorbitant charges at various retailers.
Efforts to reduce spending included the dismissal of the acting police chief and other village employees, although reports indicate that they reported to work the following day. Notably, two Chicago federal criminal defense attorneys were observed alongside Mayor Henyard during the meeting, raising questions about their involvement in the village's affairs.
Dolton, with a population exceeding 20,000 residents, is situated in Cook County and is considered a suburb of Chicago. The ongoing turmoil in the village underscores the urgent need for transparency, accountability, and effective governance to address the concerns of its residents.
