In a 5-2 decision, the Reno-Sparks Convention and Visitors Authority Board of Directors has voted to terminate President and CEO Chris Baum. The decision was made at a special board meeting Friday morning.
There’s no immediate reason given on why Baum was terminated, but according to the agenda it’s because of “without cause.”
Chair of the Board, Bob Lucey was in favor of the termination, but did not point fingers at any specific individuals.
"I don't think it was one person's fault," said Lucey. "Mr. Baum did not fail at anything."
Instead, Lucey said the Authority wants to take a new approach with the organization, including an approach that would target more millennial tourists. Lucey said the contract termination was mutual between Baum and the board.
"Through discussions I've had with Mr. Baum, we felt that this might be the right decision," said Lucey.
Reno Mayor Hillary Schieve was in favor of the termination.
"Not to take anything away from Mr. Baum, I think he did some great things, but the board is really going to focus on the future," said Schieve.
However, not everyone agreed. Sparks Councilman Ed Lawson voted against the termination.
"I'm not really in favor changing CEO every three to four years," said Lawson. "I think a longer term approach is needed."
Baum received a severance pay worth $117,041.60. This means Baum cannot take legal action against the board for wrongful termination.
The RSCVA board will now discuss an interim president and possible replacement for Baum. They will begin accepting names and will have a decision during their next meeting, which is Thursday, October 22.
Prior to joining the RSCVA in 2012, Baum was the Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing at the Detroit Metro Convention & Visitors Bureau.
