Cumberland County jobs group blew money on retreat

FAYETTEVILLE, NC(AP) — State officials say Cumberland County’s Workforce Development Board is inept, citing insufficient programs and $18,000 wasted on a lavish retreat.

The Fayetteville Observer reports Tuesday that the county needs a corrective action plan by a March 15 deadline.

State Workforce Development Director Roger Shackleford slammed the 23-member board for poor handling its $5.4 million budget and a $6.4 million federal grant for training of military spouses.

Shackleford singled out the 2009 retreat at Pittsboro’s Fearrington Country House as an example. He says the overnight stay cost taxpayers up to $450 for a single guest room and $4,308 for meals for 27 people.

Meanwhile, the work force program has enrolled only one new adult participant since July.
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Information from: The Fayetteville Observer, http://www.fayobserver.com

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