The Abbotsford Downtown Business Association (ADBA) has issued a blanket denial of allegations leveled against the organization by its former executive director in a lawsuit last month.
Last month, Tina Stewart sued the ADBA, alleging she had been wrongfully dismissed without warning and that the organization’s conduct was “malicious, oppressive and high-handed.” Stewart alleged she had taken medical leave, only to be given notice of dismissal thereafter.
Stewart had served for six years as the organization’s executive director
In a response filed in B.C. Supreme Court earlier in August, the ADBA denied nearly every single assertion made by Stewart in her lawsuit.
In the response, The ADBA said Stewart was given “clear and unambiguous notice” last September that her work would be ending, and alleged that before her employment ended, Stewart had “engaged in various forms of misconduct.”
Stewart is also alleged to have neglected her duties, withheld information and property from the ADBA, disclosed confidential information, and defamed board members. The ADBA said it had provided Stewart with a “gratuitous payment” in addition to notice of termination.
The response also denies a range of more mundane assertions of fact in Stewart’s lawsuit, including the date she said she began her medical leave of absence, the duties required of her while acting as executive director, and even the benefits and pay she received.
The ADBA is also seeking an award of special costs, saying Stewart’s lawsuit disclosed information that was subject to “settlement privilege” and was “an abuse of process” and embarrassing.
None of the allegations have been proven in court.