Matta, Jimmy (3): Alleged Violation of RCW 42.17A.700, .710 for failure to timely and accurately file Personal Financial Affairs Statement (F-1) (EY20, July20)

Case

#73573

Respondent

Jimmy Matta

Complainant

Glen Morgan

Description

The Public Disclosure Commission (PDC) has completed its review of the complaint filed on July 13, 2020. The complaint alleged that Jimmy Matta, a current City Council Member of the City of Burien, may have violated RCW 42.17A.710 for failure to timely file the Personal Financial Affairs Statement (F-1 report) due by April 15, 2020 and covering calendar year 2019. 

PDC staff reviewed the allegations; the applicable statutes, rules, and reporting requirements; the response provided by Mr. Matta; and the applicable PDC reports filed by the Respondent, to determine whether the record supports a finding of one or more violations.

Although it appears that Mr. Matta experienced extraordinary difficulties this year due to the restrictions of the COVID pandemic, and that he did not intentionally attempt to deprive the public of the disclosure of his finances as described in statute, the F-1 report covering financial activities for calendar year 2019 was submitted late. However, Mr. Matta has not been found in violation of late filing of the F-1 reports during his time as an elected official and cooperated with staff to complete his missing report.

Based on our findings, staff has determined that, in this instance, failure to timely file a F-1 report does not amount to a violation that warrants further investigation.

PDC staff reminded Mr. Matta about the importance of timely filing a Personal Financial Affairs Statement with the PDC no later than April 15th each year as an elected official, and the timely filing of all future PDC F-1 reports in accordance with the statutes and rules.  

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

July 16, 2020

Areas of Law

RCW 42.17A.700, RCW 42.17A.710

Documents

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