Allegations and Lawsuit
The former superintendent of a New Mexico municipal golf course, Christopher Cordova, has filed a lawsuit against the city of Carlsbad for wrongful termination. Cordova was accused of various misconduct, including drinking in the pro shop, bullying employees, and giving unauthorized discounts on merchandise to friends and family. The lawsuit, filed on May 10 in Fifth Judicial District Court, demands Cordova’s reinstatement, back pay for missed salary, and punitive damages from the city.
Background and Management Issues
Cordova took over as the golf course manager in June 2022, after being promoted from a caretaker position. He reported directly to his father, Ted Cordova, who subsequently resigned from the city. During Cordova’s tenure, the pro shop faced financial challenges, with a deficit of over $100,000 due to accounting discrepancies, faulty timesheet coding, and missing inventory worth $25,000.
City Council Decision and Termination
Following a six-hour hearing on April 10, the Carlsbad City Council voted to reinstate Cordova as a city employee but not in a management role at the golf course. However, Cordova was terminated from a caretaker position at a sports complex after failing to show up for work on his first day. The city considered this as a resignation or abandonment of employment.
Allegations and Response
City officials and employee testimonies accused Cordova of mismanagement of funds, drinking alcohol at work, and harassing employees. Allegations included falsifying records, using city credit for personal purchases, and hosting unauthorized events with alcohol sales. Cordova also allegedly provided discounts to friends and family on golf equipment and green fees.
Legal Challenges
Despite the accusations, Cordova claimed he was not provided with the investigative report that led to his termination. His attorney stated that the job transfer resulted in a significant pay cut, prompting Cordova to challenge the city’s actions. The legal battle between Cordova and the city of Carlsbad continues as both parties seek resolution.
For more information, contact Adrian Hedden at achedden@currentargus.com or @AdrianHedden on the social media platform X.
By: Adrian Hedden
Title: Former Golf Course Superintendent Sues City for Wrongful Termination
Sourced From: golfweek.usatoday.com/2024/06/13/course-superintendent-new-mexico-accused-drinking-bullying-sues-city/
Published Date: Thu, 13 Jun 2024 19:25:16 +0000
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