Former chamber director Ingwersen implicated for funds misappropriation

Leanne Ingwersen, former director of the Fruita Area Chamber of Commerce.
- Fruita Times file photo

By Tim Merris - 

Leanne Ingwersen, former Fruita Chamber of Commerce Director who was asked to resign has agreed to pay back the chamber for misappropriated funds she was responsible for during her time as Chamber Director.

The Chamber Board of Directors began a detailed forensic audit of the chambers books after irregularities were found. Chamber Board President, John Burwell ordered the audit and suspended Ingwersen pending the outcome of the investigation.

The initial report indicated funds were missing and there was indisputable evidence that the chamber director was solely responsible. Burwell and the chamber’s attorneys met with Ingwersen where she admitted guilt. Burwell then requested the audit continue to determine the exact amount of the missing funds and Ingwersen was given the option of resigning or she would be terminated. 

The amount of the missing funds was reported to Burwell and the chamber board this week but Burwell would not comment on the amount.

Another meeting was scheduled with Ingwersen and her representatives and a settlement was reached on a reimbursement by her to the chamber. A payment schedule was determined and stipulations were agreed upon in the event any part of the arrangement was not met.

Although this process was quite lengthy and drawn out, the Fruita Times applauds the actions of Burwell and the Chamber board in the handling of this difficult and complicated matter. Burwell indicated the Chamber board looks forward to moving on and setting a clear path and vision for the Chamber and members now and in the future.

As reported by the Fruita Times in August, Burwell states the Chamber board is working to re-organize the internal office structure of the chamber office and its staff.  Burwell states “Now that we have settled the past, we can now focus on the task at hand and make this chamber as efficient and effective as possible to better serve our members.” He also indicated that measures have been put in place to avoid indiscretions by the chamber director in the future.