The saga of Dolton, Illinois Mayor Tiffany Henyard is an unfolding political drama with a mix of controversy, power struggles, and financial missteps. Elected in 2021, Henyard’s leadership style has polarized the community. Known for her unorthodox approach, she’s often described as wielding her authority with an iron fist, and some even refer to her as the “Dolton Dictator.”
Henyard’s recent actions have added fuel to the fire. At a recent board meeting, she vetoed every piece of legislation proposed by the trustees, effectively blocking efforts to stabilize Dolton’s financial troubles. Her words, “This is my town, and I will not let these bills pass without my say,” underscore her absolute approach. Critics argue that her actions undermine the principles of democracy by sidelining the checks and balances that a village board provides.
One recurring controversy surrounds Henyard’s spending habits. Reports claim she has used taxpayer funds for personal luxuries, with instances of high expenditure on luxury travel, parties, and personal purchases. For example, she reportedly spent $85,000 on a single party featuring performances by well-known artists, which was funded by taxpayers without clear benefit to the community. Additionally, an audit revealed that Dolton’s general fund has plunged from a surplus to a significant deficit, a situation exacerbated by Henyard’s alleged use of the village credit card for personal purchases.
Henyard is also accused of using the police force as a personal tool to intimidate and control local business owners. One example is Lawrence Gardner, a business owner who claims Henyard’s administration shut down his business after he refused to make additional donations to her campaign. This pattern extends to other locals, who report feeling harassed if they do not align with Henyard’s agenda. Former police chief Robert Collins even stated that Henyard asked him to target specific individuals, which he believes led to his dismissal.
Her personal life has also faced scrutiny. Despite earning a substantial income, Henyard and her boyfriend are reportedly facing eviction from their home for non-payment of rent. Their landlord, Jenna Hull, alleges that they’ve changed the locks on the property, effectively barring her access, while she continues to pursue legal action to reclaim her property.
Henyard’s tenure has been marked by controversies that have deeply affected Dolton, with her actions sparking both support and criticism. While some see her as a bold leader, others question her motives and approach, fearing that her methods may lead to lasting damage to the community and its democratic processes.
