BCCLT: Old vs. New Board of Directors

When the forensic audit is completed, the results will likely be rather scathing. So before that happens, let me say this... "That was then - This is now."

The new Land Trust's Board of Directors is sincerely striving to revamp the organization, trying to bring it in-line with its original purpose and intent.

Whatever the audit results, they intend to use this review as a tool for positive change.

I've said all along, the former members of the Board of Directors weren't aware of what was going on regarding the everyday finances and management of the organization. Marquardt wasn't - to the best of my knowledge - part and parcel to the financial shenanigans that I think occurred.

The problem is, he was its Treasurer, then its President; so he should have known. It was his responsibility, especially when he was Treasurer. That's what being "Accountable" is all about.

Board members knew there were lax policies with how this non-profit's money changed hands - such a large cash transactions absent proper documentation - but saw it as an expedient way to get things accomplished. They likely had no idea how these lax policies were abused.

This forensic audit will likely not only identify these extremely lax policies, and recommend immediate corrections, but will get down to the nitty-gritty of what actually occurred.

This city has too much invested in the Land Trust to see it collapse; it simply needs a change of direction that restores the much needed community trust.

Marquardt's platform is one of "Accountability." Like Clayton said last week....

"I want you to do just that... Hold him Accountable,

"Hold him 'accountable' for what he should have done as Treasurer,

"Hold him 'accountable' for what he should have done as President,

"Hold him 'accountable' with your vote on Oct. 6."

"Vote for the person who's been 'Accountable' his entire life...

"Vote for 'your' City Commissioner, Clayton Lopez."