Dolton's ‘Super Mayor’ Sparks Yet More Controversy Threatening to Have Opponents Arrested

Tiffany Henyard goes live on social media claiming smear campaign as FBI, ex-Chicago Mayor Lightfoot examine deficit in Village finances

Photo byScreen Capture/Youtube Video [Creator]

DOLTON IL - The self-styled “Super Mayor” of Dolton, Illinois, Tiffany Henyard, has recently taken center stage in a heated public dispute, defending herself against financial misconduct allegations and a possible FBI investigation. Henyard, who serves both as mayor of Dolton and as supervisor for Thornton Township, delivered a passionate message during a 90-minute Facebook Live broadcast, addressing her constituents and challenging her opponents in the local government. She stated she will have opponents arrested.

Henyard’s broadcast, which followed a canceled Thornton Township Trustees meeting, emphasized her ongoing battle against what she claims are “corrupt” board members engaged in a smear campaign to discredit her. In her live address, she declared, “I will be seeking arrests for individuals involved… It’s a lot. And that’s just me telling you a little bit. All this pointing the finger at Tiffany − or lying on me − I’m over it. Now it’s time for me to speak."

The mayor’s office was contacted for further comments, though no response has been received.

The heightened tension in Dolton began with ongoing disputes between Henyard and several members of Dolton’s Board of Trustees. The conflict reached a new level this year when board members hired former Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot to conduct an independent investigation into the village’s finances, alleging serious mismanagement under Henyard’s administration.

In a report presented in August, Lightfoot revealed a troubling picture of Dolton’s financial state. “As of May 30 of this year, the village’s general fund was in a net deficit position,” Lightfoot stated, according to the Chicago Defender. The report highlighted a stark decline in the village’s general fund balance, which dropped from more than $5.6 million in April 2022 to a deficit of $3.65 million by May 2023. Henyard, elected as Dolton’s mayor in 2021 and appointed Thornton Township supervisor in 2022, has defended her financial record, dismissing the allegations as part of a campaign to tarnish her reputation.

Federal authorities also turned their attention to Dolton earlier this year. In April, FBI agents conducted a search at Dolton Village Hall, though the purpose of the investigation remains undisclosed. The FBI’s Chicago office has declined to comment on the matter, adhering to its standard policy of not confirming or denying the existence of ongoing investigations.

Adding to the mayor’s challenges, Henyard’s personal finances have come under scrutiny. She and her partner, Kamal Woods, reportedly face eviction for unpaid rent since August, according to landlord Genetta Hull. Public payroll records indicate that Henyard and Woods collectively earn over $300,000 annually, all from taxpayer funds, raising questions among local residents and critics alike.

Throughout her live broadcast, Henyard highlighted her achievements as mayor, emphasizing her commitment to community betterment. “I’m still standing. I’m still strong,” she affirmed, underscoring her intent to inspire young people in Dolton. Henyard also voiced her frustrations with local and national media, referring to certain reports as “fake news” and claiming they fail to cover the positive changes she’s brought to the village.

Henyard’s leadership style and outspoken persona have fueled both support and criticism. Her self-designation as “Super Mayor” has resonated with some residents who admire her confidence and resilience. For her supporters, Henyard’s drive to take on powerful opponents reflects the strength she hopes to instill in Dolton’s youth. “As I always say, Martin Luther King had a dream. But guess what? I am the dream. That’s what I want our young girls and boys to look at Super Mayor as strength,” she proclaimed in her broadcast.

Yet, the mounting allegations of financial mismanagement and reports of internal division have cast a shadow over her administration. Calling some board members “corrupt” and “snakes,” Henyard accused them of deliberately missing meetings to prevent her from enacting changes in Dolton and Thornton Township. “Y’all know this is a smear campaign, right? That’s what they do with people they cannot control,” she stated, rallying her supporters to help “get rid of corruption.”

Henyard’s fiery public response has amplified interest in Dolton’s political landscape as the village prepares for its next election. With accusations flying from both sides, the atmosphere in Dolton is charged with tension and uncertainty. As the village’s financial troubles continue to be investigated by federal authorities, many residents remain divided over Henyard’s leadership and the future direction of their community.