The Oregon Government Ethics Commission voted to investigate Governor Tina Kotek’s spending on parking, concert tickets, and an employee recognition buffet, flagged by auditors for potential ethics violations. The commission discussed the findings but determined they needed more information before deciding on a course of action. State auditors had looked into spending by the governor’s office after anonymous reports were received last March, ultimately finding issues with parking reimbursements, concert tickets, and a dinner held for employees at the governor’s mansion.
Among the flagged spending were monthly parking expenses for the first lady and the governor’s federal lobbyist, as well as a dinner reception at Mahonia Hall catered by a local brewery. The governor’s office defended the spending, citing past practices and traditions inherited from previous administrations. The office also clarified that some concert tickets were purchased for their protective detail, as allowed under state law.
The commission requested further investigation into the auditors’ findings to determine whether to send an advisory letter, drop the issue, or pursue fines. Governor Kotek’s office stated it was reviewing its practices in light of the allegations. The Oregon Capital Chronicle, a nonprofit news organization focusing on Oregon state government, has been reporting on the developments. The outcome of the investigation will shed light on the governor’s spending practices and adherence to state ethics laws.
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