Illinois mayor Tiffany Henyard hosts lavish party amid spending backlash

Tiffany Henyard, the mayor of Dolton, Illinois, faced backlash after hosting an extravagant party costing taxpayers $85,769. The event featured performances by R&B singer Keke Wyatt and rapper J. Holiday, who were paid $30,000 and $20,000 respectively for their short sets. Despite the high expenditure, attendance was low, leading to public outrage over the use of taxpayer funds for such lavish entertainment. Residents expressed their frustration, feeling that their money was mismanaged. Henyard's spending habits have drawn scrutiny, with allegations of excessive use of taxpayer money for first-class travel and other events. The mayor has been involved in conflicts with local officials and residents regarding her financial decisions. Recently, she vetoed a request from the Village of Dolton’s Board of Trustees to initiate a federal investigation into her alleged misuse of funds, further escalating tensions. In response to her actions, the board appointed a mayor pro tempore to take over her duties if she continues to neglect her responsibilities. The financial situation in Dolton has deteriorated significantly, with a preliminary report indicating a drop from a $5.61 million general fund balance in 2022 to a projected deficit of $3.65 million by May 2024. This alarming trend highlights the need for accountability in local governance. The controversy surrounding Henyard's party and her overall spending practices has raised questions about transparency and fiscal responsibility in Dolton. As residents demand answers and accountability, the future of Henyard's administration remains uncertain amid ongoing investigations and public discontent.