Helm, Larry: Alleged Violation of RCW 42.17A.555 for use of public resources to support a political campaign.

Case

#33014

Respondent

Larry Helm

Complainant

Rhett Winter

Description

The Public Disclosure Commission (PDC) has completed its review of the complaint filed by Rhett Winter on March 22, 2018. The complaint alleged that Larry Helm, a candidate for Board of Supervisors for the Whatcom Conservation District (WCD) in 2018, used WCD facilities to assist his candidacy in violation of RCW 42.17A.555. Specifically, the complaint alleged Mr. Helm’s campaign was assisted by the WCD who provided your name and address to a “political campaign” after the complainant requested a ballot from the WCD, and that you later received a political advertisement sent to your email address in support of Mr. Helm.

PDC staff reviewed the complaint, an attached February 22, 2018 letter from George Boggs, Executive Director of the WCD, a copy of the email advertisement, and the response from Mr. Helm.

PDC staff noted that candidates, campaigns, and other persons currently purchase registered voter lists from County Auditor’s Offices and the Secretary of State’s Office, without submitting a public records request.

Based on our findings, staff has determined that in this instance, there is no evidence that supports a finding of a material violation warranting further investigation. The PDC has closed the matter, and will not be conducting a more formal investigation into the complaint or pursuing further enforcement action in this case.

Disposition

Case Closed with No Evidence of Violations

Date Opened

March 22, 2018

Areas of Law

RCW 42.17A.555