A prominent Hartford-based nonprofit, the Blue Hills Civic Association (BHCA), has effectively shut down following its involvement in a federal investigation connected to State Senator Doug McCrory. The organization, which once offered vital youth programs, faces operational collapse, a financial audit, and heavy scrutiny over its handling of state funds.
Key Takeaways
- Blue Hills Civic Association has ceased operations amid a federal probe.
- The nonprofit is linked to inquiries surrounding State Sen. Doug McCrory and funding irregularities.
- Most staff were dismissed after state funding was suspended due to reporting delays on a cyber theft.
- BHCA is unable to participate in proceedings regarding Freedom of Information Act requests at present.
Federal Investigation Sparks Organization’s Shutdown
The closure of BHCA comes in the wake of a federal investigation targeting the nonprofit’s relationship with State Sen. Doug McCrory and businesswoman Sonserae Cicero-Hamlin. Authorities are seeking clarity on how state and federal funds were managed and redirected to other entities. The nonprofit, named in federal subpoenas, reportedly funneled significant sums to organizations overseen by individuals close to McCrory.
Funding and Oversight Issues Emerge
Insight into BHCA’s operations reveals that the nonprofit often served as a conduit for millions in state funding, forwarding much of it to other nonprofits. This process sidestepped typical state oversight and competitive bidding procedures. State officials became concerned when BHCA delayed reporting a $300,000 cyber theft of grant money, leading to an immediate suspension of public funding and wide-scale staff layoffs in April. Since then, the nonprofit’s online presence has all but disappeared.
Calls for Transparency and Freedom of Information Dispute
After media inquiries about BHCA’s subgrantee selection process and communications with McCrory, the organization denied requests for records, arguing it wasn’t bound by Connecticut’s Freedom of Information Act. However, critics contend that since BHCA received substantial government funding, it should be treated similarly to a public agency in terms of disclosure requirements.
The nonprofit has since asked state regulators to postpone hearings aimed at compelling document release, citing operational incapacity and lack of legal representation due to financial constraints. Legal counsel has withdrawn, leaving BHCA without representation as it faces ongoing oversight challenges.
Ongoing Audits and Future Outlook
The State of Connecticut has commissioned an independent financial audit of the organization’s records, with results now expected this November. While state lawmakers regularly advocate for funding local nonprofits, authorities flagged the unusual practice at BHCA of transferring resources to other groups, especially those with personal or professional ties to public officials. It remains to be seen what further action the state and federal governments will take as the investigation continues into the nonprofit’s finances and affiliations.
