Control Over Community Group Divides Compton Residents

2UrbanGirls has noticed that a particular Compton resident hasn’t been heard from on social media since the June election. She was one of many residents who pushed for local control to be retained by residents at Compton College and was also posting disturbing news related to the Concerned Citizens of Compton Inc. (CCOC).

The group began nearly 19 years ago, as a way to get residents more involved in civic affairs. The group was founded by community members, many of which have went on to hold elected office. Members include former Mayor Eric Perrodin, Marjorie Shipp, Yvonne Arceneaux, Emma Sharif, Lorraine Cervantes and a host of others who are still pledging their financial support via the payment of dues.

Ms. Hollis as been voted President of CCOC for the last 15 years. Hollis is also listed on the original filing documents submitted to the state in September 2004.

In January of this year State filings show Gilda Blueford listed as the organizations Chief Executive Officer “CEO”, Horace McElroy as the Secretary and Martin White as Chief Financial Officer “CFO”.

Strangely the above names have all been removed this month. The new “CEO” is Richard Earl, Secretary is Carolyn Harvey and “CFO” is Lillie Darden.

It is unknown why Ms. Hollis’ name has been removed. It is also unclear why multiple changes have been filed in a span of eight months. Copies of the filings are listed below.

Members of CCOC have reached out to 2UrbanGirls to provide clarity as to what the issues are, behind the scenes, that are dividing the community as a direct result of those changes.

CCOC members reached out after video surfaced of a meeting being held that introduced City Manager Craig Cornwell, City Attorney Damon Brown and City Councilwoman Michelle Chambers to the residents. The meeting was hosted under the name of Concerned Citizens of Compton. When 2UrbanGirls asked why the outrage, they shared that no one from the organization voted her in.

The changing of listed presidents, and allegations of nefarious tactics used to do so, have found many involved in lawsuits that are currently making their way through the courts.

Respected members of the organization are facing million dollar lawsuits, many of which are elderly living on fixed incomes, which is too bad since ALL parties involved want the best for the city of Compton.

The trouble began when CCOC fell behind on annual tax filings. When members were asked to bring CCOC current, to continue being recognized as a nonprofit in good standing, that is when claims of improprieties began.

Those with first hand knowledge of the situation have asked 2UrbanGirls to make sure the public is aware of the legal wranglings and are praying for an outcome that is conducive to both the community and members of CCOC.

Social media has become the primary source of public sparring between many of the members of CCOC which threatens to taint the organizations good name due to continued threats of lawsuits.

2UrbanGirls is told that the original membership is standing behind Ms. Hollis and will continue to meet regularly, while the courts sort out the details. We will continue to keep you in the loop.