NEON's Stephenson Takes Leave of Absence, Berkoff Schedules Board Meeting for Thursday

From Michael Berkoff, chairman of the board (as read and attached): 

"We deeply regret the current situation of NEON . We are going to do what's best for the children, families and staff. 

1. Chiquita has taken an unpaid leave of absence, effective immediately. 

2. I am calling for a board meeting on Thursday, Nov. 7.    
  a) update status    
  b) issues on paychecks unfunded    
  c) related to her unpaid leave of absence, we are putting a new management team in place to help the children and families and staff. 3.

Over the last week we have held in-house meetings with Mrs. Stephenson with recovery and payments owed to NEON, which have led to the current situation. Having staff paid to continue services. Wrong decisions were made for issuing paychecks. 

From October 27, thru present, management failed to provide the board with accurate answers about the financial situation. This has resulted in my call for a Board Meeting November 7th to make decisions regarding current management and future direction at NEON. Will be available for questions after our board meeting tomorrow night." 

State Senator Bob Duff (D-25) 

"The current situation at NEON is sad and frustrating. Many of us, including Rep. Morris, Rep. Perone, Congressman Himes and the Malloy Administration have been working behind the scenes for months in order to right this ship. It is extremely important to us that services continue for the families and children who depend on them and for the staff to feel confident that they will be paid for their work. 

"Today's step is a good one, but much more needs to be done. We will continue to monitor the board's progress and expect that they will quickly take decisive action. As community leaders, we offer our assistance and guidance so that our city's anti poverty agency is available to those who need it."