Mike “Shorty” Shorten, a Republican candidate for Nunda Township Supervisor, has revealed allegations of legal violations committed by incumbent Supervisor Leda Drain.
Shorten claims that Drain has failed to comply with both the Illinois Public Aid Code and the Township Code in handling General Assistance funds and paying approved bills, leading to what he describes as "mismanagement" of township resources.
"The apparent mismanagement and disregard for legal obligations are unacceptable," Shorten said in a press release. "Our township deserves leadership that adheres to the law and prioritizes the needs and trust of its residents."
Shorten called for immediate action from Township Clerk Joni Smith, urging her to set aside any personal allegiances and fulfill her responsibilities by revoking Drain’s bond and pursuing legal action as required by Illinois state law.
The allegations against Drain focus on two violations.
First, Shorten alleges that Drain violated the Illinois Public Aid Code (305 ILCS 5/6-11a), which mandates that townships have an official policy for General Assistance services. A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request revealed that no such policy exists under Drain’s administration.
Second, Shorten claims Drain violated the Township Code (60 ILCS 1/80-50) by failing to pay an attorney’s bill, approved at the March 14, 2024 Nunda Board meeting, within the required 20-day period.
The bill was for services related to allegations against Highway Commissioner "Iron Mike" Lesperance concerning the misuse of taxpayer funds.
Shorten contends that Drain has not addressed these issues, pointing out her failure to present a corrective General Assistance policy at the Feb. 13 board meeting and her refusal to pay the overdue legal bill, which has remained unpaid for more than 11 months.
Shorten has previously criticized Drain for hiring family members, increasing their salaries and attempting to raise her own salary, arguing that her actions prioritize self-interest over public service.
He has signed an Anti-Nepotism Pledge, vowing to avoid family hiring and contracts within the township.
In addition to nepotism accusations, Shorten took to Facebook to decry Drain for allegedly attempting to raise her salary by 25%.
“Incumbant Supervisor Leda Drain, since getting into office four years ago, has hired an immediate family member, increased their salary 150% to $42,000 a year for a part time clerical position!” he said. “In October of this past year Leda Drain, tried to raise her own salary by 25% to $95,000 a year.”
Shorten is running against Drain for the Nunda Township Supervisor position in the Republican primary on Feb. 25.
He is currently serving his second term on the McHenry County Board and resides in Crystal Lake. If successful, Shorten plans to retain his seat on the McHenry County Board.
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