Yakima Valley Conference of Governments: Alleged violation of RCW 42.17A.555 for improper use of public facilities or resources for the purpose of supporting or opposing a ballot measure

Case

#169356

Respondent

Yakima Valley Conference of governments

Complainant

Kenton Gartrell

Description

On March 10, 2025, the Public Disclosure Commission (PDC) received a complaint alleging that the officials of Yakima Valley Conference of Governments, may have violated RCW 42.17A.555 by using/authorizing the use of Yakima Valley Conference of Governments (YVCOG) resources/facilities to promote a ballot proposition/measure.

PDC staff reviewed the allegation contained in the complaint, including the evidence submitted with the complaint and determined that YVCOG violated RCW 42.17A.555 by advocating for a “yes vote” on the upcoming sales tax vote both on Facebook post and during the seat down “CogCast” episode with Sheriff Udell and issued a formal warning letter to YVCOG officials.

Based on the above determination, the PDC staff dismissed the matter in accordance with RCW 42.17A.755(1).

Disposition

Case Closed with Written Warning

Date Opened

March 26, 2025

Areas of Law

RCW 42.17A.555