Brian Wasankari: Alleged violations of RCW 42.17A.235,.240 & .555 by failing to timely & accurately report a mailer expenditure, and using public agency resources to assist an election campaign. (EY 24 Oct 24)

Case

#161278

Respondent

Brian Wasankari

Complainant

Nicholas van Putten

Description

This case alleged violations of RCW 42.17A.235 & .240 by failing to timely & accurately report a mailer expenditure, and RCW 42.17A.555 by using public agency resources to assist an election campaign.

PDC staff reviewed the allegations and evidence submitted; the applicable statutes, rules, and reporting requirements; the responses provided by Brian Wasankari (the “Respondent”); the applicable PDC reports filed by the Respondent; and other relevant information to determine whether the record supports a finding of one or more violations.

Based on our attached findings, staff determined that, in this instance, failure to timely disclose an expenditure (in-kind contribution) on a C-4 report does not amount to a violation that warrants further investigation. in addition, the Respondent’s use of a courtroom photograph in his election campaign does not appear to violate .555 so that allegation has been dismissed (see attached).

Pursuant to WAC 390-37-060(1)(d), however, Brian Wasankari received a formal written warning concerning his failure to timely and accurately disclose contributions and expenditures on C-4 reports, including in-kind contributions. The formal written warning included PDC staff’s expectation that the Respondent timely and accurately disclose all contributions and expenditures in the future. The Commission will consider this formal written warning in deciding on further Commission action if there are future violations of PDC laws or rules.

When a C-4 report is filed early, the Respondent was reminded to disclose any subsequent activity that occurs within the C-4 reporting period by amending the report. PDC staff also reminded the Respondent about the importance of providing sufficient description details for expenditures and in-kind contributions on C-4 reports, including but not limited to, the vendor’s name and address, the number of yard signs or items printed, the type of advertising (e.g. digital) and their run dates. PDC staff expect that, in the future, he will include such details on C-4 reports in accordance with PDC laws, rules, and guidance. 

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 Written Warning

Date Opened

October 28, 2024

Areas of Law

RCW 42.17A.235, RCW 42.17A.240, RCW 42.17A.555

Documents

• 161278 Wasankari Brian Warning Letter.pdf
• 161278 Brian Wasankari Complaint.pdf
• 161278 Brian Wasankari Response.pdf