Modesto, Calif. — The Stanislaus Council of Governments has placed its executive director on paid administrative leave following a grand jury report that raised serious allegations regarding her spending practices and work environment. The report accused Rosa De Leon Park, who took on the role in 2015, of misusing public funds for extravagant expenses, including luxury hotel stays, first-class travel, and high-priced rental cars.
During a special meeting on Monday, the policy board voted to keep Park on paid leave while an investigation into the allegations is conducted. Members expressed varied opinions on the decision. Stanislaus County Supervisor Vito Chiesa, who supported the move, emphasized the importance of giving individuals a fair chance to respond to accusations.
“Everyone deserves a chance,” Chiesa said, noting the serious nature of the allegations requires thorough examination. Conversely, Supervisor Channce Condit, who voted against the leave, highlighted concerns over the financial implications of Park’s $25,000 monthly salary.
Others who opposed the measure echoed Condit’s sentiments, leading to a split vote on the matter. Park, who attended the meeting but did not address the board, issued a statement through her attorney, Kevin J. Rooney. He described her disappointment regarding what he termed inaccuracies in the grand jury’s findings and expressed confidence in an independent review.
A report released last Thursday detailed several troubling expenses attributed to Park, including over $100,000 spent on rental cars in just three years and lavish hotel stays totaling more than $33,000. Notably, the report stated that Park often booked high-end accommodations and first-class flights, drawing attention to a specific instance where she chose a longer travel route rather than driving to a conference.
Additionally, the grand jury noted that for a seven-month span, Park charged nearly $10,000 to her official credit card without providing receipts for 62 transactions. They recommended structural changes within the organization, including hiring a director of financial services and enhancing oversight of expenditures.
The report also highlighted a dysfunctional work environment, with former employees citing instances of humiliation, inappropriate comments, and severe stress. The investigation that led to these findings originated from a citizen complaint earlier this year.
In response to the findings, StanCOG’s board has called for an independent forensic audit and a workforce investigation to restore oversight and accountability. Supervisor Buck Condit will lead an ad hoc committee designed to oversee these efforts, stating the community’s trust is paramount.
Originally established in 1971, StanCOG unites city and county governments to address transportation needs in the region, which includes Modesto and its surrounding areas. Under Park’s leadership, the organization has received state and national recognition, including a recent $85 million grant for three key infrastructure projects.
The grand jury’s detailed report and its implications for the StanCOG leadership have generated significant community interest, raising questions about governance and financial accountability in public agencies.
For the full grand jury report, visit the Stanislaus County Courts website.
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