Monroe Police have launched an investigation into misconduct allegations against Southside Economic Development District (SEDD) president Tony Little, following a complaint filed by a Monroe woman.
The woman alleges that Little pressured at least one SEDD vendor for kickbacks on inflated bills and promised her employment with the district in exchange for sexual favors. She has since submitted invoices to SEDD totaling $36,000 for services rendered since 2024.
The matter became public during Tuesday night’s Monroe City Council meeting after SEDD commissioner Rev. T.J. Stevenson raised concerns. Stevenson told the council that the board is unable to act because the complaint involves its president, who has the authority to call special meetings and set the agenda.
The situation is further complicated by the recent resignation of Vice President Attorney Sarah Smith.
Rev. Stevenson also accused Little of authorizing more than $36,000 in payments to a local contractor for incomplete work without board approval. She presented photographs to the council that she said supported her claims.
The council confirmed Monyea Hampton to fill Smith’s vacant seat, but members emphasized that the council has no authority over SEDD’s internal operations.
Bishop Rodney McFarland, Monroe City Council chairperson said, “The city council is powerless to deal with SEDD’s internal issues,” though he noted he has observed dysfunction at past SEDD meetings.
The district’s most recent meeting, called by Little, was canceled after five members failed to attend. Stevenson argued that an executive session is urgently needed to address the allegations, appoint temporary leadership while the investigation is conducted, and allow the board to move forward.
She said SEDD is currently “at a standstill,” and city attorney Brandon Creekbaum says it takes seven members to call a special meeting and six must be present for a regular session.
Stevenson also criticized Councilwoman Juanita Woods, who nominated Little to the board. She said Woods is aware of the complaints but has repeatedly refused to replace him, despite the complaints and despite the fact that his term expired more than a year ago.
The next regular SEDD meeting is scheduled for October 6.
Following Tuesday’s council meeting, Stevenson said she was troubled by what she described as a dismissive response from city leaders.
“The city council appointed Mr. Little, and accusations of sexual misconduct and malfeasance should not be dismissed with a simple ‘there’s nothing we can do about it,’” she said.
She said the city council’s failure to remove Mr. Little enables him and makes him “untouchable.”
