State auditors have identified several potential violations of state ethics laws following a review of expenditures from Gov. Tina Kotek’s office, some of which are described as “minor” and “unintentional.” These issues, which include parking fees, concert tickets, and a catered meal, were first reported by Willamette Week and are being reviewed by the Oregon Government Ethics Commission.
The audit began after anonymous reports were made to the state’s government accountability hotline in March 2024 regarding misuse of state resources, particularly concerning Kotek’s plans to establish an Office of the First Spouse, which were later abandoned. Although the initial reports were found to be unfounded, the audit uncovered several expenditures that raised concerns about compliance with state policy.
A Friday letter from Cheryl Myers, the deputy Secretary of State at the time, revealed that auditors had reviewed various categories of spending, including prizes and awards, catering, tickets, and parking. Myers emphasized that the auditors did not review every transaction, but focused on these areas due to their potential to violate state ethics rules.
One issue flagged involved monthly parking fees paid by the state for first lady Aimee Kotek Wilson and Annie McColaugh, the governor’s director of federal affairs. Kotek Wilson was granted $65 per month for parking in Salem, while McColaugh received $315 per month for parking in Washington, D.C. State law prohibits public officials from receiving financial benefits like parking reimbursements unless they are explicitly stated in official policies.
Auditors also raised concerns over entertainment expenses totaling $615. While state funds may be used for certain entertainment costs, such as when public officials are performing official duties, the auditors found several instances where expenses seemed to benefit public officials personally. These included two $60 tickets to a Queen tribute concert, five $320 tickets to a Portland Gay Men’s Chorus performance, and several other ticket purchases for arts events.
A further issue involved an August 2023 dinner reception at the governor’s mansion for approximately 180 employees and their families. The meal, which cost $9,330 and was catered by Xicha Brewing Company, appeared to violate state policies that limit the use of public funds for employee meals. According to the Oregon Accounting Manual, state funds may only be used for “refreshments,” such as coffee and snacks, at employee recognition events, not full meals.
In response, Myers recommended that the Governor’s Office adhere to state policies and avoid using public funds for entertainment unless the public official is performing official duties. She also suggested that the Governor’s Office collaborate with the Department of Administrative Services to revise policies regarding meals at official events.
The Oregon Government Ethics Commission, which has received the audit report, is currently reviewing the findings to determine whether an investigation is warranted. A spokesperson for the governor’s office has not yet commented on the matter.
Reference News :- Oregon state auditors flag ‘minor’ spending issues by Gov. Kotek’s office