Corruption allegations fuel anger at Thornton Township budget hearing

Julian Crews and Gabriel Castillo

8 hours ago

SOUTH HOLLAND, Ill. — Embattled Thornton Township Supervisor Tiffany Henyard was heckled by angry residents during a budget hearing that went off the rails Friday in South Holland.

There are 17 south suburban communities that are part of Thornton Township and at the hearing, residents made it clear they are unhappy with Henyard, which is under federal investigation for corruption.

“You all must be in prison!” Because it’s ridiculous,” said one resident.

Frustrated residents who attended the hearing demanded answers from Henyard, who is currently facing several lawsuits and a federal investigation in his dual role as mayor of Dolton.

Many residents said they were outraged by the allegations.

“I'm trying to rob everyone. Everyone! And we’re not going to leave you our money,” said another frustrated resident.

Investigators are reportedly focusing on everything from contracts to cronyism. Henyard and his allies spent more than $100,000 on questionable and extravagant trips, much of which was uncovered by WGN Investigates.

But during Friday's hearing, Henyard fought back.

“Now you will hear the truth about the budget from me and my administration. Now you have to listen to learn,” Henyard said shortly before ordering the expulsion of a resident for allegedly disrupting the meeting.

The tense confrontation was later defused by police, with officers refusing to evict the resident, based on 1st Amendment rights.

But the time needed to consider the proposed 2025 budget was almost lost in the entire conflict.

The board was able to approve the 2025 roads and bridges budget, and the larger general fund passed on the second vote.