CEIDC board hands severance payments to resigning employees despite city disapproval

During the recent City of Crockett Council meeting, significant discussions emerged regarding past severance payments made by the Crockett Economic and Industrial Development Corporation (CEIDC) without city approval. This issue dates back to August 2016 when employment contracts for two CEIDC employees, Flint Brent and Suzanne Steed, were improved. Following their resignations in September 2016, the CEIDC board agreed to pay severance packages that included three months' pay and a year’s worth of benefits.

However, the city refused to authorize these payments, citing that the employees did not qualify for severance due to their voluntary resignations. Despite this, the CEIDC proceeded to pay Brent and Steed directly, totaling over $39,000. Notably, Brent later returned his severance payment, while Steed's payment was not reported for tax purposes.

In response to these unauthorized payments, the city council voted in January 2017 to remove all CEIDC board members, highlighting the seriousness of the situation and the need for accountability in city operations.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the hiring of Ponsetto Robbins as an executive assistant in February 2017. Concerns were raised regarding a potential conflict of interest, as Robbins is a first cousin of the spouse of CEIDC board member, Mr. Gentry.

These discussions underscore the importance of transparency and adherence to proper procedures in city governance, ensuring that taxpayer funds are managed responsibly. The council's actions reflect a commitment to uphold these standards and restore public trust in local government operations.