MODESTO — The Stanislaus Council of Governments’ policy board placed its executive director on paid administrative leave Monday night after a civil grand jury report accused her of spending public money on lavish hotels, first-class airfare, and exorbitant car rentals, as well as creating a chaotic work environment.
Stockton resident Rosa De Leon Park, who was not called out by name in the grand jury report but has served as the StanCOG executive director since 2015, will continue to draw her salary while the policy board digs into the allegations.
“I was in favor of paid administrative because I believe everyone deserves a chance,” said Stanislaus County Supervisor Vito Chiesa (District 2), who represents Turlock and serves on the 16-member policy board that held a special meeting Monday. “We’re thankful to the grand jury, but there hasn’t yet been a full investigation. These are serious allegations, and once we’ve conducted our own internal investigation, based on that outcome, I’ll make my decision.”…