Everett City Council Seeks AG Aid to Recover $180,000 from Mayor DeMaria

The Everett City Council has unanimously requested Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Campbell to intervene and recover $180,000 in improper longevity bonus payments made to Mayor Carlo DeMaria, following an Inspector General's report that found he was overpaid by misapplying the city's mayoral longevity ordinance. The ordinance intended to award $10,000 after each full term served, but DeMaria reportedly collected $40,000 annually, resulting in overpayments from 2016 through 2021. Despite the council's efforts, including hiring independent auditors and legal counsel, the mayor has refused to return the funds, maintaining he acted within legal bounds and labeling the allegations politically motivated. The Attorney General's office has indicated it may lack jurisdiction to recover the funds but is reviewing the matter. Councilors have expressed frustration over the mayor's refusal to allocate budget for the investigation and legal expenses, emphasizing taxpayer accountability. The controversy has led the council to pass a vote of no confidence in DeMaria and demand he cease using city funds for his legal defense.