In 2024, Florida entrepreneur Cameus Chicoye reportedly received $172,900 from three city departments for advertising and consulting services via his agency. Over the past two years, the total payment amounted to over $340,000. This transaction has drawn public attention due to allegations of a conflict of interest, sparking calls for closer inspection of taxpayer-funded expenses.
Despite the controversy, both Chicoye and the city departments deny any wrongdoing, insisting their business relationship is based on merit. Chicoye, known among city officials due to a past venture, has been silent towards the controversy. However, his businesses are under scrutiny following a city officer’s resignation linked with the entrepreneur.
Procurement data reveals extensive collaborations across departments with Chicoye’s agency. Key officials delivered the agency numerous contracts, with total transactions approaching $150,000. This prompted further investigation into the agency’s engagement with city departments.
Chicoye’s company, Play 4 Production LLC, was established in 2022. Yet an irregularity between company addresses in order records and publicly listed details invited further scrutiny.
Scrutinizing Florida entrepreneur’s city dealings
Many business transactions occurred in Florida, while the company’s registration was in Virginia. This discrepancy led to questions over the relationship between the city official and Play 4 Production LLC.
Chicoye’s services for the city included video production and consultation. For example, one city official hired Chicoye for a $10,000 project, plus a $9,000 consultation. The official reaffirmed his decision, crediting Chicoye’s work impact and professional growth services for staff.
However, Play 4 Production LLC’s Virginia registration was marked as inactive by March 2024, but 17 procurement orders were processed afterward. Neither Chicoye nor city administrators have commented on the current operational status of his agency or potential contract violations. Authorities have started an internal investigation, but its details remain confidential.
Despite the controversy, business operations within the city remain unaffected. The city’s procurement office has declined to confirm or deny any violations from 2024. The ambiguity surrounding these events persists, leaving an air of uncertainty.
