The Dolton Village Board of Trustees in Dolton, Illinois recently voted to appoint a mayor pro tempore in case current Mayor Tiffany Henyard is unable to serve due to an ongoing corruption investigation. Trustee Jason House was chosen to fulfill this role, stepping in for the mayor in specific situations where necessary. The board expressed concerns that Mayor Henyard was neglecting her duties, highlighting the importance of ensuring that essential services continue for Dolton residents.
Despite Mayor Henyard’s absence at the board meeting, it is anticipated that she will veto the appointment of a mayor pro tempore. Trustee House clarified that this appointment was not intended to replace the mayor, but rather to address any potential refusal or inability on her part to perform her duties, ensuring that important documents are signed and business operations move forward smoothly.
Mayor Henyard has faced criticism for various actions, such as using taxpayer money for a lavish trip to Las Vegas, leading some to dub her as the “worst mayor in America.” Former Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot was enlisted to investigate Mayor Henyard, but the plan was rejected by the mayor. Allegations have also surfaced that an ally of Mayor Henyard was assaulted by a trustee during the Las Vegas trip, resulting in her dismissal for speaking out against the incident.
With a salary of $300,000 – higher than that of the Governor of Illinois – Mayor Henyard has asserted that she was chosen by a higher power. This contrasts with the average annual salary of under $48,000 for Dolton residents. Amid mounting pressure from residents, calls for Mayor Henyard’s resignation have escalated, culminating in a confrontational reception with boos at the latest board meeting she attended.
