When Controversial Dolton Mayor Fails to Show for Meeting Trustees Take Action

Board moves forward on spending limits, business licenses, firefighter contract despite Mayor's failure to show

Controversial Dolton Mayor Tiffany HenyardPhoto byScreen Capture/Youtube Video [Creator]

DOLTON — In the absence of Dolton Mayor Tiffany Henyard, village trustees convened a special meeting, taking significant steps to address village spending, business licensing, and labor agreements. Despite Henyard’s absence, she remained a focal point of criticism from residents during the public comment period.

One resident expressed frustration with the mayor's leadership, saying, "We have been fighting this demon for the last three years, and I did call her a demon, and I meant what I said."

During the meeting, trustees imposed a temporary moratorium on travel and meal reimbursements for elected officials and employees. They also adjusted rules for check signing requirements and approved 18 business licenses that had reportedly been delayed.

Additionally, the board finalized a new firefighter contract, covering union members through 2027, after four years without an agreement. Firefighters have blamed Mayor Henyard for multiple canceled negotiation sessions. Lt. Adam Farej, representing Dolton Fire Local 3766, said, “The trustees did what they had to do, and it was a slam dunk.”

Trustees also completed action to terminate Deputy Police Chief Lewis Lacey, who had previously pleaded not guilty to federal bankruptcy fraud charges. Despite earlier claims by Henyard and Lacey regarding his continued authority, state records now list him as “inactive” with an official separation date of August 14.

Trustee Kiana Belcher reinforced the board’s commitment to addressing the village’s challenges, stating, “This is our community. We need to take it back, and we will continue to fight as we've been doing for the past three and a half years.”

Attempts to reach Mayor Henyard’s attorney for comment were unsuccessful.