Lack of Transparency: Statements of Economic Interest

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Every elected official and public employee who makes or influences governmental decisions is required to submit a Statement of Economic Interest, also known as the Form 700 with the Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC). The Form 700 provides transparency and ensures accountability in two ways:
  • It provides necessary information to the public about an official’s personal financial interests to ensure that officials are making decisions in the best interest of the public and not enhancing their personal finances.
  • It serves as a reminder to the public official of potential conflicts of interest so the official can abstain from making or participating in governmental decisions that are deemed conflicts of interest.
At least 80% of those who are listed as a designated filer with the County of Sonoma did not file a Form 700 as required by the FPPC. Sonoma County Supervisor James Gore, District 4, Healdsburg Councilmember Ariel Kelley, Sonoma County Health Officer Dr. Sundari Mase, Sonoma County Communications Manager Paul Gullixson and Sonoma County Supervisor Lynda Hopkins, District 5 are currently under investigation with the FPPC.

The Press Democrat newspaper has published two different articles pertaining to these efforts.


















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