Illinois Mayor Stands Accused of Eviction Evasion

As a leader in a small Illinois village, Mayor Tiffany Henyard, 30, is expected to uphold the rule of law. However, one landlord, Genetta Hull, has had to take drastic measures to have the mayor and her roommate, Kamal Woods, 39, removed from their shared home. The dispute began when Hull filed eviction papers in September, alleging that the duo owes more than $3,350 in rent and late fees on her property.

The Dispute

Hull asserted that Henyard and Woods, who have been paying rent on a month-to-month basis since their lease expired in May 2023, have been "elusive" and have refused to let her inspect the property. When she attempted to visit the property on a Saturday, she found that the locks and garage door code had been changed. This development prompted Judge Carrie Hamilton to suggest that Hull contact the village for assistance in gaining access to the home, as she also wants to have maintenance done on the furnace.

During a Zoom hearing, Hull lamented, "Do you know who these people are? Do you know who these defendants are?" Henry and Woods did not appear in court, nor did an attorney represent them. The Cook County sheriff’s police have made multiple attempts to serve the eviction papers, but have been unsuccessful.

The Background

Various questions have been raised about Henyard’s ability to afford her rent. As the mayor of Dolton, she receives a salary of $46,000, while her role as a supervisor at Thornton Township comes with a salary of $224,000. According to a W-2 statement provided by the town, Henyard was paid about $62,000 in wages last year, which is significantly higher than the average rent for a two-bedroom property in Dolton, which stands at $1,400 per month.

The Lock-It-Up Approach

Despite her financial means, it appears that Henyard is following a pattern of changing locks and garage door codes, not just at her rental property, but also at the Dolton Village Hall. According to the Chicago Tribune, complaints have been made by Dolton trustees regarding multiple lock changes at Village Hall under Henyard’s orders.

A Summary of the Situation

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the current situation regarding the eviction papers filed by Genetta Hull against Mayor Tiffany Henyard and Kamal Woods?
A: Hull filed the papers in September, alleging that the duo owes more than $3,350 in rent and late fees. They have been paying rent on a month-to-month basis since May 2023.

Q: What is the current occupation of Kamal Woods?
A: Kamal Woods is the supervisor of the Thornton Township’s youth assistance program.

Q: Is there a pattern of nonpayment of rent in this case?
A: The lease expired in May 2023, and they have been paying rent on a month-to-month basis since then.

Q: What are the potential consequences of the current situation?
A: A court hearing may be held to resolve the dispute, potentially leading to the termination of the lease and repossessing the property.

Conclusion

In a situation where a mayor is evicted from a property, questions arise about the potential consequences for their leadership and reputation. As the story unfolds, it will be essential to monitor the development and consider the broader implications of such a situation.

Author: www.inman.com

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