Wenatchee mayoral candidate, James McLaughlin, has been fined $300 for failing to file a financial disclosure form promptly. The penalty was imposed last month by the Public Disclosure Commission (PDC). The forms in question, a C-1 Report and an F-1 personal financial information form, are required within two weeks of a candidate filing for office.
McLaughlin submitted the forms on July 20, just before appearing before a brief enforcement hearing with the PDC. During the hearing, he explained that a family emergency, the departure of a campaign assistant, and an incorrect address on file with the PDC were the reasons behind the delay. McLaughlin acknowledged that between one thing and another, it never got done.
Natalie Johnson, a spokesperson for the PDC, informed that $250 of the $300 fine would be suspended if McLaughlin did not commit another violation within the next four years. It was also revealed that the complaint against McLaughlin was initiated by PDC staff.
When contacted, McLaughlin clarified that this was his first offense and that the commission treated it as such. However, he did backtrack on the amount he raised and spent during his campaign. While initially claiming to have personally donated $25,000 and spent $7,000 on campaign signs, he later stated that he would need to review his finances more closely.
To ensure transparency, Johnson emphasized the importance of candidates being accountable for their campaign finances. She highlighted the need for accurate reporting, stating that candidates must be able to account for all contributions and expenses.
The other two candidates running for Wenatchee mayor, Bryan Campbell and Mike Poirier, appear to be in compliance with the PDC. Poirier has raised $25,271 and spent $24,598, while Campbell has raised $9,900 and spent $7,178.66. Johnson reiterated that candidates, even those with self-funded campaigns, must maintain detailed financial records for public inspection.
Following an interview, McLaughlin confirmed that he was working with the PDC to resolve the missing financial reports. He assured that he would file the required reports and fully comply with the Public Disclosure Committee.
It remains to be seen whether any additional enforcement complaints will be filed against McLaughlin. The PDC would investigate any complaints made by the public.
Ultimately, it is crucial for candidates to adhere to reporting requirements, as it ensures transparency and helps prevent potential conflicts of interest.
