Former Business Partner Blamed by Colorado Springs Mayor for Allegations of Unpaid Debt

Colorado Springs Mayor Yemi Mobolade is facing allegations that his two coffee shops, Wild Goose Meeting House and Good Neighbors Meeting House, failed to repay debts owed to a food distributor. Two lawsuits have been filed by Shamrock Foods Company, claiming that the coffee shops owe nearly $29,000 and nearly $68,000, respectively, from 2018. Shamrock is seeking full repayment of the amounts, along with interest and attorney’s fees. However, Mobolade denies any wrongdoing in the claims and instead blames his former business partner, Russ Ware, who is a co-defendant in the case.

According to court responses from Mobolade’s attorney, Lyndsay Ressler, Ware is accused of engaging in fraudulent activities and stealing funds from the businesses. Ware was also a part-owner of another business, Epiphany, a Latin-fusion restaurant and music venue that closed in 2022 due to allegations of fund misuse. Mobolade has distanced himself from Ware and has stated that he has cut ties with him.

Questions about Mobolade’s connections to Ware were raised during his campaign for mayor. In response, Mobolade stated that he took steps to address the issues and protect residents from Ware’s actions. After his election, Mobolade withdrew his involvement in the cafes, as required by the city charter. The coffee shops are currently being managed by Mobolade’s wife, Abbey Mobolade.

The mayor’s office has declined to comment on the lawsuits, and neither the Mobolade family nor Ware have provided immediate responses to requests for comment. Despite the allegations and legal battles, Mobolade maintains his innocence and continues to focus on his duties as the mayor of Colorado Springs.