The Greater Taylorville Chamber of Commerce has responded to a lawsuit filed and officially announced the termination of Executive Director Linda Allen, citing serious violations of Chamber trust. The decision, made on March 4, 2025, was reached unanimously by five of the seven Executive Committee members. One member was unavailable, while Allen did not participate in the vote.
According to the Chamber, the termination was prompted by unauthorized use of Chamber resources, including after-hours computer access by an individual with a known felony conviction. The individual, along with Allen, allegedly drafted and sent official communications without the Board’s knowledge or approval.
In addition, the Chamber addressed concerns over a letter sent to city and county officials that questioned the validity of an insurance certificate. The Chamber clarified that this letter was not Board-approved and reflected the personal opinions of Allen and others. After consulting with legal and insurance experts, the Chamber confirmed the certificate’s validity.
Chamber officials also refuted claims that Taylorville Mayor Bruce Barry was involved in Allen’s termination, calling any such suggestions false.
Furthermore, the Chamber extended apologies to several local individuals and organizations, including Dan McNeely, Diamond Brothers Insurance, Cincinnati Insurance, and members of the Small Town Taylorville volunteer team, stating that the unauthorized communication unfairly implicated their work and reputation.
The Chamber says they are disappointed in media reports that, they claim, published unverified information. However, Regional Radio News reached out to several entities several times including The Chamber of Commerce, Krystal Baker, and Mike Mann among others, and were either told “No Comment” or did not pick up the phone despite numerous efforts to do so and time windows to respond in kind.
Moving forward, the organization says it emphasizes its commitment to transparency and the continued support of its members.
