Residents call for audit and tighter oversight of HeadCo amid disputed travel records and contracting

Several residents used the public-comments period at the Sept. 2 Henderson City Council meeting to press elected officials for a full review of HeadCo, the Henderson Economic Development Corporation, citing missing travel records, large increases in marketing and travel budgets and a recent $50,000 contract with an out-of-state firm.

Trey Seguri, a volunteer on HeadCo’s board, told the council he supports the corporation’s work to “incentivize business, job growth, and sustain business throughout our community,” and urged the council to approve the budget and scope of work so HeadCo can continue housing initiatives, business grants and land deals he said are “on the cusp” of delivering benefits to Henderson.

A resident who identified themselves during the public comment period described a series of open-records requests dating to July 19 and said HeadCo’s attorney replied that “there are no records responsive to your request regarding travel expenditures.” The resident said that is inconsistent with public material, including HeadCo executive director Brett Gardella’s…