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DISCUSSION REGARDING THE POTENTIAL EXPANSION OF THE SCOPE OF THE WILD N’ OUT INVESTIGATION
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RECOMMENDATION
This item was placed on the agenda by the Mayor pursuant to Council Policy Section 4.02.010. It is recommended that Council, by motion, 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 the Fair Political Practices Commission regulations.
2. Bring back completed results at the next available council meeting following completion of the expanded scope.
3. For any findings that support violations, initiate litigation through the City Attorney’s Office or refer to the appropriate 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 that any member of the Council acted inappropriately or violated the City Charter or California Government Code led to a council discussion regarding the initiation of an investigation. The results of that investigation, including cost, were to be presented to the council upon completion.
Although the existing investigation scope is now 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 is a violation of the Fair Political Practices Commission regulations. To do so, the council must provide further direction to the City Attorney.
DISCUSSION
Background
• 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 councilmembers.
The Wild ‘n Out event raised concerns regarding the potential misuse of City funds and the possible involvement of elected official(s) in a manner inconsistent with City or State law. To safeguard transparency, 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.
Concerns included:
1. Councilmembers’ Role
o Allegations have been made that a Councilmember may have acted outside of proper authority in relation to this matter.
o At present, there is no verified evidence confirming wrongdoing, nor has there been an independent legal review.
2. Transparency and Accountability
o To maintain public trust, an impartial third-party entity should conduct a full investigation.
o This would include reviewing communications, decisions, and any financial transactions related to the event.
Council voted 4-3, with councilmembers Lee, Enriquez, and Blower dissenting to initiate an investigation.
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 the Fair Political Practices Commission regulations.
Conclusion
Considering the above, the Council is asked 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 the Fair Political Practices Commission regulations.
2. Bring back completed results at the next available council meeting following completion of the expanded scope.
3. For any findings that support violations, initiate litigation through the City Attorney’s Office or refer to the appropriate authority/entity.
FINANCIAL SUMMARY
Investigation costs, and if findings are sustained, litigation costs may be warranted. There are no costs for referrals to other agencies.