Big Money in Non-Profits . . .
Wednesday, May 30th, 2007
By Chris Fitzsimon
Several years ago the Fayetteville Economic Development Corporation, the Downtown Business Alliance, and the Chamber of Commerce combined forces and funding to form the Cumberland County Business Council. My first thought when the new public-private venture was announced was that it would be operating with public funds–but outside the view of the public.
That, of course, was the intended result. Economic development sorts believe they have good reasons for keeping their operations under wraps. They probably do have some good reasons–in some situations. But when the secrecy prerogative is used merely to dampen public input, then the public trust is abused.
Recent revelations about the significant portions of public funds being used to pay six-figure salaries to non-profit executives does nothing to allay public concerns over entrusting public funds to private boards of directors. Neither do recent concerns about whether the money and efforts of the organizations are concerned more about public interests or justifiying the public funding they receive. (more…)
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