Mark Hutson

Hutson, Mark: Alleged violations of RCW 42.17A.555 for misuse of public facilities to support Hutson and Tompkins election campaigns (EY 19; Sep 19)

Case Details

Case Number

56970

Respondent

Mark Hutson

Complainant

Heather Popp

Date Opened

September 04, 2019

Case Status

Case Closed with Written Warning

PDC staff found evidence of minor violation and warned respondent.

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Area(s) of Law*

  • RCW 29B.45.010/42.17A.555

*On January 1, 2026, RCW 42.17A was recodified to RCW 29B

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Description

The complaint alleged Mark Hutson, a 2019 candidate for Milton City Council, may have violated RCW 42.17A.555 by using city facilities, specifically his City of Milton e-mail account, to assist his campaign and the campaign of Mary Tompkins, also a candidate for Milton City Council

PDC staff has determined that in this instance, the use of his City of Milton e-mail to send and receive the e-mails does not amount to a material violation warranting further investigation. However, pursuant to WAC 390-37-060(1)(d), Mark Hutson will receive a formal written warning concerning the use of city facilities to assist an election campaign.  The formal written warning will include PDC staff’s expectation Mark Hutson review PDC guidance for local government agencies in election campaigns. 

The Commission will consider the formal written warning in deciding on further Commission action if there are future violations of PDC laws or rules. Based on this information, the PDC finds that no further action is warranted and has dismissed this matter in accordance with RCW 42.17A.755(1). 

Documents

Penalties

None