City of Ocean Shores Officials: Alleged Violation of RCW 42.17A.555 for misuse of public facilities (EY 20, Feb 20)

Case

#65295

Respondent

City of Ocean Shores Officials

Complainant

Donald Williams

Description

The Public Disclosure Commission (PDC) has completed its review of the complaint Donald Williams filed on February 14, 2020. The complaint alleged that City of Ocean Shores Officials, public agency officials, may have violated RCW 42.17A.555 for misuse of public facilities to either appose or support a candidate or ballot measure.

PDC staff reviewed the allegations; the applicable statutes, rules, and reporting requirements and the response provided by the Respondent to determine whether the record supports a finding of one or more violations. Based on our findings staff has determined that, in this instance, the misuse of facilities by a volunteer DJ does not appear to be a violation that warrants further investigation.

PDC staff is reminding City of Ocean Shores Officials about the importance of monitoring and informing staff and volunteers of the policies regarding restrictions on use of facilities to support or oppose candidates or ballot measures, including school levies and bonds; the review and enforcement of these policies is as important as the initial handbook and guideline notifications.

Based on this information, the PDC finds that no further action is warranted and has dismissed this matter in accordance with RCW 42.17A.755(1).

Disposition

Case Closed with Reminder

Date Opened

February 19, 2020

Areas of Law

RCW 42.17A.555