LaTonya Williams Says She Was Fired as Bartlett Center Executive Director
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. — LaTonya Williams says she has been terminated from her position as executive director of the Bartlett Center after nearly a decade with the organization.
Williams announced the termination Saturday, Sept. 19, in a statement posted to social media. She said she was notified by phone Friday evening that the Bartlett Center Board of Directors had decided to end her employment, effective immediately.
According to Williams, the decision came as the Bartlett Center continues to deal with financial difficulties.
Williams said funding shortages over the past several months resulted in missed rent payments and eventually an eviction notice from the City of St. Joseph. She said the Bartlett Center board later met with City Manager Mike Schumacher and reached a payment arrangement that would allow the organization to continue operating.
However, Williams said she was informed that she would not be part of the organization moving forward.
Williams also alleged that Schumacher pushed for her removal at the direction of the St. Joseph City Council. She further claimed her termination was politically motivated and connected to her campaign for Missouri State Representative.
Those allegations have not been independently confirmed.
Williams said she was saddened and disappointed by the decision but indicated she plans to continue supporting the children and families served by the Bartlett Center.
She also said the termination would not end her campaign for State Representative and that she intends to continue campaigning.
Williams had served as executive director of the Bartlett Center for nearly 10 years.
As of early Sunday, Sept. 20, SJCA had not located a public response from the Bartlett Center Board of Directors or the City of St. Joseph addressing Williams’ allegations surrounding her termination.
This remains a developing story and SJCA will provide additional information as it becomes available.
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