Calumet City aldermen have decided to take legal steps to obtain receipts for $76,000 of expenses linked to Mayor Thaddeus Jones. Despite nearly a year of requests, documentation for the spending remains unavailable.
Aldermen Seek Transparency
Aldermen have been concerned since Mayor Jones accrued $44,000 on a city credit card in September. Much of this spending occurred during the Congressional Black Caucus’ 54th annual legislative conference in Washington. The city council has repeatedly asked for proof that these expenses serve city business.
Mayor Jones no longer holds the city credit card. Yet, the city council, which hired legal counsel in December, still awaits the receipts. Alderman DeAndre Tillman expressed frustration, stating, “We’re just asking questions.” He was driven to examine expenses further when Jones promised to reimburse $25,000 from the Washington conference. Tillman claims the reimbursement came from a business already indebted to the city.
Mayor Jones’ Response
Jones contends he provided the requested receipts in July. He argues the council’s actions are politically motivated. “They got the receipts,” Jones said, insisting that the council’s approval of past expenses indicates their involvement.
Allegations of Unauthorized Spending
Aldermen argue that much of the expenditures were unauthorized. They plan to meet again on September 8 to choose an independent firm for the lawsuit against Jones. Calumet City has faced budget deficits between $2.8 million and $4.7 million since 2023. This led to a five-year bond agreement for overdue bills and the layoff of 46 employees in May.
Accountability Concerns
Alderman Monet Wilson acknowledges the potential costs of suing the mayor but emphasizes the need for fiscal accountability. She highlights the impact of budget constraints on city infrastructure, such as flood damage to homes and streets.
Wilson clarified that the council does not aim to criminalize the mayor but seeks to maintain checks and balances. “We just want to hold him accountable,” she said.
Legal Dispute Over Authority
Mayor Jones argues the city council lacks authority to hire attorneys, a point he raised in a lawsuit against the council’s legislative counsel. A judge denied the firm’s motion to dismiss the lawsuit, with the next hearing set for September 3 at the Richard Daley Center in Chicago.