Greater Holyoke Chamber Files Criminal Complaint Against Former Director

HOLYOKE — The Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce has filed a criminal complaint with the Holyoke Police Department and the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office against former Executive Director Jordan Hart for the alleged theft and misappropriation of funds.

In November, chamber leadership identified financial irregularities and initiated an internal review, led by the executive committee, over the course of several months. The investigation determined that chamber funds had been used for personal expenses by the executive director and that certain grant funds designated for specific programs were instead diverted to other purposes. Hart’s employment with the chamber was terminated in January.

Following this review, the chamber submitted its complaint to the Holyoke Police Department, and it has since been referred to the Massachusetts Attorney General’s Office. The chamber will continue to cooperate fully with both agencies throughout the investigation.

In response to this incident, the chamber has implemented new financial oversight protocols and will continue to strengthen procedures to ensure the highest standards of fiscal accountability.

“We recognize this alleged misappropriation of funds harms the reputation of our business association, and the good work we do, and we pledge to work diligently to follow this criminal complaint to its conclusion,” Harry Montalvo, president of the chamber’s board of directors, stated in a letter to chamber members. “We will work to correct and improve oversight going forward in order to earn your renewed trust in the organization.”

He added, “while this unfortunate and painful occurrence has harmed our reputation, we believe the Holyoke Chamber represents a vital institution worthy of support from our local businesses and the community at large. In the meantime, we will continue to offer our regular programming to our membership, and we look for your continued support and engagement.”