The discussion regarding CareerSource Polk President and CEO Stacy Campbell-Domineck culminated in her temporary removal without pay while an expedited, independent governance review is conducted.
The Polk County Board of County Commissioners voted unanimously to suspend Campbell-Domineck and launch the review. The action followed an August 25 letter sent to county leaders by FloridaCommerce Secretary J. Alex Kelly and CareerSource Florida CEO Adrienne Johnston alleging “noncooperation, questionable fiscal management, and in some cases outright deception”.
Key Allegations from State Officials
- Unauthorized Spending: CareerSource Polk implemented procedures and conducted employee training connected to a performance plan without state approval, potentially misusing federal workforce funds.
- Commercial Driver Training Issues: The agency dropped three local commercial driver’s license (CDL) training providers while failing to adequately place program graduates into available trucking jobs.
- Inappropriate Event Promotion: State leaders flagged a promotional campaign and calendar event titled “For the LOVE of MEN…of the workforce” for inappropriate content and potential misuse of public funds.
Current Status & Next Steps
- Outside Review: The county bypassed normal procurement rules to quickly hire an independent reviewer to examine CareerSource Polk’s management, board oversight, and fiscal controls.
- Final Determination: Once the governance review is complete, the County Commission will decide whether to reinstate Campbell-Domineck or terminate her contract for cause.
- Lakeland Housing Authority: The suspension has also prompted discussions by the Lakeland City Commission regarding Campbell-Domineck’s separate seat on the Lakeland Housing Authority board, though city officials have taken no formal action to remove her.
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