Portland, October 10, 2025
News Summary
Cornell Wesley, the executive director of Prosper Portland, is under investigation for alleged inappropriate conduct during a recent trip to Minneapolis. The inquiry, initiated by a complaint filed on October 3, focuses on flirtatious comments made towards a staff member as over 100 officials gathered to discuss urban growth. While denying the allegations and maintaining his professional integrity, Wesley will remain in his position as the investigation proceeds, highlighting ongoing concerns regarding conduct in public office.
Portland is currently investigating Cornell Wesley, the former director of Birmingham’s Department of Innovation and Economic Opportunity, for inappropriate conduct. Wesley was hired as executive director at Prosper Portland in August after leaving Birmingham, where he served from 2021 until July.
The investigation was initiated by a complaint filed on October 3 and is being handled by Portland’s Human Resources Bureau. The complaint concerns Wesley’s alleged “inappropriate communications” with a staff member during a recent trip to Minneapolis from September 28 to October 1. The trip involved over 100 public and private officials who convened to explore potential synergies between the two cities.
During the Minneapolis trip, it is reported that Wesley made flirtatious comments, including expressing a desire to “get together later.” Following these allegations, Prosper Portland Board Chair Tavo Cruz confirmed the hiring of Snell & Wilmer law firm to carry out an investigation. This law firm will report the findings directly to him. Despite the allegations, Wesley will continue in his position as executive director while the investigation is ongoing.
Wesley has denied the claims made against him and asserts that he has an “unblemished” professional reputation. He expressed concern that these allegations surfaced shortly after he had relocated his family to Portland from the South. Prosper Portland has faced its share of challenges, particularly following the departure of its previous permanent leader, Kimberly Branam, in 2024, which resulted in conflicts over budget and governance.
Wesley was hired with an annual salary of $280,000 and received $45,000 in relocation assistance. During the Minneapolis trip, discussions also included topics related to urban growth and sports stadium development, aiming to identify potential models for Portland.
This ongoing investigation highlights serious concerns regarding conduct within public office and the challenges faced by Prosper Portland as it aims to stabilize leadership and provide effective economic development in the city.
Background Context
Wesley’s tenure in Birmingham was marked by a focus on innovation and economic opportunity from 2021 until his departure in July. His move to Portland came at a time when Prosper Portland was navigating difficulties following leadership transitions. The allegations against him raise questions about professional conduct and the expectations of public officials.
FAQ
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Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Person Involved | Cornell Wesley |
| Former Role | Director of Birmingham’s Department of Innovation and Economic Opportunity |
| Current Role | Executive Director at Prosper Portland |
| Investigation Start Date | October 3 |
| Allegation Type | Inappropriate Communications |
| Trip Location | Minneapolis |
| Salary | $280,000 |
| Relocation Assistance | $45,000 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- AL.com: Portland Investigates Former Birmingham Economic Developer
- Wikipedia: Cornell Wesley
- WVTM13: Affordable Housing Developer Defends Veteran-Focused Apts in Bham
- Google Search: Prosper Portland
- Bham Now: Wanted Developer for the Old Banks School Site
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Economic Development
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
