Tamarac Commissioner Elvin Villalobos is facing criticism, once again, this time for using taxpayer resources to promote his 2024 campaign. During the recent 4th of July celebration, Villalobos distributed fans bearing his campaign logo alongside the City logo, sparking concerns about the misuse of public funds.
When questioned by a Tamarac Post reporter, Villalobos dismissed the issue, stating, “the temperature is hot.” However, the controversy lies in the fact that the fans were distributed by a City employee, whose salary exceeds $100,000, paid concurrently with Villalobos’ term. The fans were also allegedly distributed by volunteers wearing Villalobos’ campaign shirt.
Furthermore, the use of the City logo alongside Villalobos’ campaign logo implies an endorsement from the city, which is a violation of city rules. Commissioner Marlon Bolton urged City Administrators to freeze the $20,000 initiative funds, in a recent budget workshop, which reset on October 1st, just over 30 days before the election.
Bolton stated, “No policy preempts us from using these funds so close to an election. City staff must take immediate action to freeze those funds now.” However, Villalobos opposed the idea, and no consensus was reached. As a result, Villalobos now has $40,000 at his disposal to spend on ‘campaign-related activities’ at taxpayers’ expense, including the distribution of the controversial fans.
Commissioner Bolton plans to file an ethics complaint if or when Villalobos seeks reimbursement for the fans. Community activist Kate Johnson has also criticized Commissioners for misusing taxpayer funds for ‘campaign purposes.’
The incident has sparked a heated debate about campaign finance violations, the city’s code of ethics, and the misuse of public funds. Villalobos’ response to the criticism, “take my name out of your mouth,” has only added fuel to the fire. As the election season heats up, the controversy surrounding Villalobos’ actions is likely to continue.
“Elvin Villalobos has no moral compass, wastes taxpayer dollars, and Tamarac residents have gotten nothing in return,” Bolton said.
