Lori Lightfoot Reports on Dolton's Financial Mismanagement

Former Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot has released preliminary findings from her investigation into the spending practices of Dolton Mayor Tiffany Henyard, revealing significant financial mismanagement in the suburb. Hired at a rate of $400 per hour, Lightfoot discovered that Dolton had not undergone an audit since 2021, raising alarms about the town's fiscal health. Residents, like Valerie Stubbs, expressed concern over the findings, which indicated that the town's general fund is now $3.65 million in debt, a stark decline from a surplus of over $5.6 million in April 2022, coinciding with Henyard's assumption of office. The investigation highlighted alarming discrepancies, including 589 checks totaling more than $6 million that had been approved but not sent to vendors. Additionally, over $40,000 in Amazon purchases and thousands of dollars spent on village credit cards are under scrutiny. Notable expenditures included $43,000 on Amazon in a single day, $8,000 at Wayfair, and $2,000 at Best Buy, prompting Lightfoot to emphasize the misuse of taxpayer dollars. In response to the findings, the village has frozen the credit cards used by Henyard and other officials, now requiring board approval for any purchases. The investigation was initially prompted by concerns over a lavish trip to Las Vegas taken by Henyard, two village trustees, and other employees, during which a serious incident of alleged assault occurred, leading to retaliation against the victim. As the investigation continues, the community remains on edge, grappling with the implications of these findings on Dolton's financial future and governance.