Dolton, Illinois Mayor Tiffany Henyard’s administration accused of financial cover-up
In a shocking revelation, former Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot has exposed a “systematic effort” by Dolton, Illinois Mayor Tiffany Henyard’s administration to conceal the town’s true financial situation. According to Lightfoot’s investigation, Henyard and other officials have failed to track the spending of hundreds of thousands of dollars, leaving the town in a precarious position.
A damning report by Lightfoot, who now works as a consultant with Charles River Associates, was presented at a meeting on Monday night. The investigation, conducted last year, uncovers a disturbing pattern of financial mismanagement and a deliberate attempt to hide the true condition of the Village of Dolton.
Misuse of funds and lack of transparency
One of the key findings of the investigation is the disappearance of hundreds of thousands of dollars from the American Rescue Plan funds received by the Village of Dolton. Shockingly, there are no records or receipts to account for this missing money. Henyard, in her role as mayor, failed to appoint an official to monitor the spending of these funds, in direct violation of the Treasury Department’s requirements.
Further examination of the city’s finances reveals a significant increase in credit card spending, reaching a staggering $779,638 in 2023. However, there is little to no tracking of these expenditures, with many lacking accompanying receipts. The report raises serious concerns about the lack of transparency and accountability in the city’s financial management.
Dubious trips to Las Vegas
The report also sheds light on questionable expenses related to trips to Las Vegas. City credit cards were used to fund these trips in both 2022 and 2023. However, there is no evidence to suggest that these trips resulted in any tangible benefits or business development opportunities for the village. This raises further doubts about the responsible and ethical use of taxpayer money.
Contempt of court and liquor license controversy
Adding to the growing list of scandals surrounding Mayor Henyard, she was recently found in contempt of court for obstructing the issuance of liquor licenses. The owners of St. Patrick’s, a prominent restaurant and banquet hall, filed a lawsuit alleging that Henyard repeatedly promised to sign the licenses, which had already been approved by the village board of trustees. Despite her assurances, Henyard failed to meet the deadline, forcing the parties to return to court.
In a display of disrespect towards the court’s authority, Henyard arrived late for the hearing, further exacerbating the situation. Cook County Judge Cecilia Horan held her in indirect criminal contempt, emphasizing the seriousness of her actions.
The road ahead
Mayor Henyard’s administration is now facing severe scrutiny and public backlash. The revelations from Lightfoot’s investigation have raised serious questions about the integrity and competence of the leadership in Dolton. It remains to be seen how the town will recover from this financial scandal and restore trust in its government.
The citizens of Dolton deserve transparency, accountability, and responsible financial management. The community is eagerly awaiting actions that will address these concerns and ensure a brighter future for their town.
