Citizens for Better Schools Oak Harbor: Alleged violation of RCW 42.17A.235 and .240 for failure to timely and accurately report expenditures (EY22,23,25 JAN25)

Case

#165707

Respondent

Citizens for Better Schools Oak Harbor

Complainant

Conner Edwards

Description

The complaints alleged violations of RCW 42.17A.235 and .240 for failure to timely and accurately report expenditures.

Noncompliance appears to be the result of a lack of understanding of PDC requirements rather than the intent to withhold information from public disclosure. Based on the findings, staff has determined that, in this instance, failure to timely and accurately report contributions and expenditures does not amount to a violation that warrants further investigation.

Pursuant to WAC 390-37-060(1)(d), however, Citizens for Better Schools Oak Harbor is receiving a formal written warning concerning failure to timely and accurately disclose all contributions and expenditures. Staff expect that Citizens for Better Schools Oak Harbor timely file all future required reports of contributions and expenditures and include the required level of detail for campaign expenditures. The Commission will consider the formal written warning in deciding on further Commission action if there are future violations of PDC laws or rules.

Based on guidance regarding current caseload levels the Commission issued at its January 23, 2025, meeting, this matter is being dismissed in accordance with RCW 42.17A.755(1).

Disposition

Case Closed with Written Warning

Date Opened

January 21, 2025

Areas of Law

RCW 42.17A.235, RCW 42.17A.240