RSBA Co-Founder Calls for Alliance to Close, New Radcliff Business Group to Form

Shortt seeks a full accounting of the organization’s funds before a new group takes shape.

RADCLIFF, Ky. — T.W. Shortt, a co-founder and former president of the Radcliff Small Business Alliance, is calling for the organization to provide a full financial accounting, close in accordance with its governing documents and make way for a new alliance led by local business owners.

Founded in 2013, the RSBA grew out of concerns that consolidating local chambers of commerce would leave Radcliff’s small businesses without a strong voice. Community members including Selenda Hudson, Pam Ogden, Jerry Brown and Toshie Murrell have contributed to the Alliance over the years.

Shortt said he still believes in the mission that brought the founders together, but no longer believes the current organization is fulfilling it or is positioned to do so.

According to Shortt, recent meetings with RSBA officers about restoring effective leadership have not produced a path forward. He said he has been informed that the president resigned, but has not seen a clear succession plan put into effect. A journal of accounts he requested in July has also not been provided, he said, leaving his request for a full accounting unresolved.

Based on information available to him, Shortt estimates that the RSBA holds approximately $25,000. He is asking its officers to account for the funds, explain how they are being protected and provide the records needed to reconcile the organization’s finances.

Shortt also believes the Alliance has drifted from serving business owners toward public appearances and personal promotion. In his view, a small number of politically ambitious individuals have effectively taken over its public identity. He described displays of community leadership that are not backed by service to members as “virtue signaling.”

Shortt proposes that the RSBA provide a complete accounting, settle its obligations and follow its governing documents to close. He then wants Radcliff business owners to establish a new alliance with open membership, regular meetings, published financial reports and leaders accountable to the businesses they represent.