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In a release issued by the Saugeen Shores Chamber of Commerce, Joanne Robbins, Chamber Manager says that, "The Saugeen Shores Chamber of Commerce board and staff are glad to have closure regarding the events of a year ago and have ensured that nothing like this could reoccur." 

Robbins was referring to an incident that occurred approximately one year ago when former Pumpkinfest Festival Co-ordinator, Lisa Irwin, was charged with fraud after an investigation by local police discovered a discrepancy in the books of $67,000. 

Irwin was in court on Wednesday, March 2 in Walkerton where she pleaded guilty to 12 counts of forgery and one count of theft over $5,000.

As a result of the incident, Robbins assured that the Chamber has changed internal business methods.  Staff members who can now retrieve mail has been limited to two and the Chamber has introduced cheque requisition forms and also ensures double and triple checks monthly on financial statements.

Irwin has been placed under house arrest and will be on probation for two years.  Although she was ordered to pay back $10,000, doubt was raised on her ability to do so.

"We've put this incident behind us and look forward to serving the community for another 50 years," says Robbins.

 

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Saturday, March 05, 2011