A damning report released by the Broward Inspector General has confirmed allegations that Tamarac Commissioner Elvin Villalobos accepted alcoholic beverages from a lobbyist during a dinner meeting in Washington DC. The dinner, which took place at the upscale Clyde’s of Gallery Place restaurant, was hosted by a Lobbyist whose firm sought a $85,000 contract that Villalobos supported.
Villalobos had previously denied claims of impropriety, but the Inspector General’s report reveals that he admitted to accepting “one alcoholic beverage” from the lobbyist.
The OIG recommended that Villalobos pay for the alcohol he drank, “and report those payments to the public without further delay.”
Sources close to the matter have also alleged that Villalobos became intoxicated and was asked to leave the restaurant after picking fights with others.
The incident has raised concerns about Villalobos’ judgment and ability to represent the city’s interests.
Staff and other elected officials were present to witness his unacceptable behavior. One Commissioner stated that he had been trying to warn residents about Villalobos’ behavior for months.
“I have been trying to warn Tamarac residents about Villalobos’ behavior for months,” Bolton said. “Finally, mainstream media is bringing his actions to light.”
The trip to Washington DC was intended to lobby lawmakers to fund much-needed projects in Tamarac. However, Villalobos’ absence from scheduled meetings the following day and his failure to attend a meeting at the White House have raised questions about his commitment to his duties.
This is not the first time Villalobos has faced controversy. City records show that he previously sought reimbursement for mileage to a local liquor store, which was paid for by the city.
And, Vice Mayor Morey Wright publicly reprimanded Villalobos at a public meeting making a passionate plea to Commissioner Elvin Villalobos to end his contentious behavior. But Villalobos has not backed down, since telling City Staff to advise Dr. Kicia Daniel to “clean up the park.”
The incident has sparked calls for greater transparency and accountability in government. Residents are demanding answers about Villalobos’ behavior and whether he is fit to serve as a commissioner.
