In a recent development for Fair Park First, an organization that aims to restore the historic Fair Park National Landmark, Brian Luallen has announced his resignation as CEO.
Luallen’s employment was marked by efforts to oversee the revitalization of Fair Park, a task that involved complex financial issues, and responding to allegations of mismanagement involving donor funds.
Luallen, who has led the nonprofit for five years, initiated an audit of the park’s finances following a whistleblower’s concerns about Oak View Group, the park’s operator, potentially mishandling donor funds, as reported by The Dallas Express.
Since May 1, questions have surrounded Luallen’s employment status.
City officials were previously informed that Luallen had departed the nonprofit, with Alyssa Arnold, chief impact officer, serving as interim CEO, according to The Dallas Morning News. However, Luallen was purportedly reinstated, a decision that sparked further controversy and led to subsequent resignations from key board members, including former board chair Darren James.
Luallen’s leadership faced an apex of scrutiny when a whistleblower raised concerns about the organization’s financial practices under the management of the park’s operator, reported DMN.
Acting as the liaison between the City and the operator of the 277-acre South Dallas landmark, Luallen announced his resignation during a recent board executive session. His resignation will take effect on August 15.
“It has been the greatest honor and privilege of my career to help guide the revitalization of Fair Park, an undeniable treasure for the City of Dallas and its citizens,” Luallen wrote in a statement.
Veletta Forsythe Lill, who recently assumed the role of board chair, expressed regret over Luallen’s resignation but acknowledged the challenges surrounding his leadership.
“We all recognize how difficult it would be to go forward in his current role and appreciate the sacrifices he has made,” Lill wrote in a statement published by DMN.
“The long-term health and stability of Fair Park is at the center of all decisions by the board. We support Mr. Luallen’s decision and we look forward to working with the City of Dallas and our partners as we move forward,” she added.
The nonprofit’s board emphasized its commitment to ensuring stability moving forward, and plans to begin a search for a new CEO are already underway, per DMN. Luallen has pledged to assist in a smooth transition for the organization over the coming weeks.
DX reached out to Luallen regarding his resignation but did not receive a response by publication.