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DISCUSSION REGARDING THE POTENTIAL EXPANSION OF THE SCOPE OF THE WILD N’ OUT INVESTIGATION
recommended action
RECOMMENDATION
This item was placed on the agenda by the Mayor pursuant to Council Policy Section 4.02.010.
It is recommended that Council direct the City Attorney to:
1. Expand the existing scope of the Wild ‘N Out Investigation to include a review of whether the Vice Mayor’s failure to recuse himself from the discussion and vote regarding whether to initiate the Wild ‘N Out Investigation is a violation of city or state law, including the Fair Political Practices Commission regulations.
2. Bring back completed results at the next available council meeting following completion of the investigation regarding the expanded scope.
3. If there are findings that support a violation(s), initiate litigation through the City Attorney’s Office or refer to the appropriate external authority/entity.
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Summary
The Wild ‘N Out event was held at Adventist Health Arena on May 24, 2025. Allegations surfaced regarding Councilmembers’ role in this matter. The absence of independent determination regarding these allegations led to a council discussion regarding the initiation of an investigation and, ultimately, direction to initiate. The results of that investigation, including cost, were to be presented to the council upon completion.
Now that the existing investigation scope is complete, there is a desire to consider expanding the scope of the investigation to include a review of whether the Vice Mayor’s failure to recuse himself from the discussion and vote regarding whether to initiate the Wild ‘N Out Investigation was a violation of the Fair Political Practices Commission regulations. To expand the scope, further direction is needed from the council.
DISCUSSION
Background
Following the Wild ‘N Out event, concerns were raised regarding the potential misuse of City funds and the possible involvement of elected official(s) in a manner inconsistent with City or State law. On August 26, 2025, the City Council directed the City Attorney to engage a third-party investigator to review the matter and report findings back to the Council and community.
The chronology of events is as follows:
• The Wild ‘N Out tour scheduled a live show at Adventist Health Arena on May 24, 2025.
• In the days leading up to the event, concerns reportedly arose about potential financial shortfalls or risks of cancellation.
• Public questions emerged about whether such use of funds was consistent with legal and policy requirements as well as questions regarding councilmember involvement.
• On August 26, 2025, the Council considered and approved the initiation of an investigation to determine whether there was any wrongdoing by any councilmember.
Council voted 4-3 to initiate an investigation, with councilmembers Lee, Enriquez, and Blower dissenting.
Present Situation
The council-initiated investigation is now complete as it pertains to the original scope of the investigation. However, the council is now asked to consider expanding the scope of the Wild ‘N Out Investigation to include a review of whether the Vice Mayor’s failure to recuse himself from the discussion and vote regarding whether to initiate the Wild ‘N Out Investigation is a violation of city or state law, including the Fair Political Practices Commission regulations.
FINANCIAL SUMMARY
Investigation costs, and if findings are sustained, litigation costs may be warranted. There are no costs for referrals to other agencies.