Winter Springs, FL — October 2025
Gladys Sherpa, owner of Valor Air Group LLC, a licensed HVAC contractor serving Central Florida, has initiated legal proceedings against Robin Nielen, proprietor of Clubhouse Deli, following months of unresolved payment disputes stemming from contracted work performed earlier this year.
In May 2025, Valor Air Group was hired to execute HVAC services at the Clubhouse Deli location in Winter Springs. The scope of work included the removal and pump-out of an existing unit and the procurement of a custom curb designed specifically for the site’s architectural needs. Sherpa confirmed that her team completed the job as agreed, but when it came time for payment, the situation quickly deteriorated.
“Robin continuously delayed payment,” Sherpa explained. “He gave excuse after excuse—ranging from scheduling conflicts to personal issues. Eventually, I had to warn him that if payment wasn’t made, the matter would be turned over to my attorney.”
In response, Nielen issued a company check. However, the check was returned by the bank due to insufficient funds. Upon receiving the notification, Sherpa reached out again for clarification and resolution. Nielen allegedly responded with a series of evasive explanations, including a claim of hospitalization, and later promised to send a money order. That payment never arrived.
Now, nearly five months later, Valor Air Group remains unpaid. Sherpa’s legal counsel has begun formal proceedings to recover the outstanding balance. But as the case unfolds, troubling new details have emerged: Valor Air Group is not the only business left in the lurch.
According to Sherpa, Nielen also reportedly owes money to his landlord, Zaya Givargidze, and Jeff Cuddy, a welder who contributed to the same project. Other vendors and contractors have allegedly come forward with similar complaints, though their names have not been publicly disclosed due to privacy concerns.
Despite the mounting financial disputes, Nielen is reportedly preparing to open Clubhouse Deli to the public in the coming weeks. The move has raised eyebrows among local business owners and contractors, many of whom are calling for greater accountability and transparency.
“We work hard to serve our community,” Sherpa said. “No business should be left unpaid for honest work. Speaking out isn’t just about our company—it’s about protecting others from similar experiences.”
As legal action proceeds, the case serves as a cautionary tale for contractors and vendors across Central Florida. With the region’s small business ecosystem built on trust and collaboration, stories like Sherpa’s highlight the importance of due diligence and clear contractual safeguards.
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