WA Public Disclosure Commission issues warning to City of Edmonds over RFA election communication

The Washington State Public Disclosure Commission (PDC) has warned the City of Edmonds for allegedly using public resources to influence a Regional Fire Authority (RFA) annexation ballot measure. This warning followed a complaint by Theresa Hutchison of the Edmonds Can Do Better committee, which argued that the city’s communications with Liz Loomis Public Affairs crossed the boundary between education and advocacy. A supplemental complaint also alleged that the city's tax calculator misrepresented tax implications, although the PDC did not address this concern. In its findings, the PDC confirmed that city officials used official emails and social media to communicate support for the ballot measure, violating RCW 42. 17A.

555. However, the PDC deemed the violations minor and dismissed the complaints, indicating that they had been "cured. " The commission also stressed the importance of maintaining neutrality in public communications regarding ballot measures. Theresa Hutchison welcomed the PDC's thorough review, highlighting the community's need for transparent and fair governance. The case underscores the critical balance between public education and advocacy in local government communications.