Nepotism, Mismanagement, and Excessive Spending Allegations Rock Punta Gorda Town Council

For weeks now we have been getting reports of nepotism, excessive spending and mismanagement of funds at the Punta Gorda Town Council.  We have been seeking responses from the Ministry of Local Government, but they have refused to furnish us with any information, other than to say all is well in the south.  We are not convinced, however, as five of the seven town councilors have been requesting meetings with the Mayor to get some answers as to how big contracts are being given out without consulting them or taking it to caucus.  The councilors have said that they are getting nowhere, and tonight, they are still curious as to what really is happening at the Punta Gorda Town Council.  Our news team decided to pay a visit down south when we heard that PUP’s Order of Distinguished Service was also there to meet with them over concerning matters.  Reporter Vejea Alvarez was able to meet up with Mayor Charles Selgado after the meeting, but we got the cold shoulder, and a very upset mayor.  Here is how that brief encounter went yesterday evening.

Reports to our newsroom say there is a conflict of interest when the Town Administrator, Melhem Espat is the son of the Area Representative, Mike Espat.  We are told that several contracts are being awarded without going through the proper procurement procedures, and that claims of equipment purchases are being made but receipts are not readily available.  Our newsroom tried reaching out to Minister of Local Government, Oscar Requena, but our texts and calls have all gone unanswered.