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SD City Attorney Aguirre Should Come Clean

"This week, San Diego City Attorney Michael Aguirre - a registered Democrat - has come under fire for ethical lapses pertaining to the collection of campaign contributions.  When Aguirre took campaign donations from six of his staff members, he violated a clear and simple article in the city charter forbidding city officials from accepting donations or gifts from their subordinates.

"Aguirre has refused to answer questions about his malfeasance, failing to return calls to the media and offering up no defense or explanation to the public whose trust he has violated.  This is plainly unacceptable for someone in his position.

"As a public official, it is incumbent upon Mr. Aguirre to come clean with his constituents and answer questions about his actions, including the admission of any wrongdoing which seems to have taken place."

Kevin Roberts, Communications Coordinator, California Repbulican Party

The San Diego City Charter Specifically Forbids City Officials From Accepting Donation Or Gifts From Staff:

"This provision [Article XIV, Section 218] stipulates plainly that ‘no officer or employee shall solicit or accept any donation or gratuity in money, or other thing of value, either directly or indirectly, from any subordinate or employee, or from any one under his charge.' (OpEd, "Ethical Breach: Aguirre Violates Law On Contributions From Staff," San Diego Union-Tribute, 10/10/2007)

"In spite of this sweeping prohibition, City Attorney Mike Aguirre has taken campaign contributions from at least six of his top subordinates, state disclosure documents show." (OpEd, "Ethical Breach: Aguirre Violates Law On Contributions From Staff," San Diego Union-Tribute, 10/10/2007)

"In late June, senior Aguirre deputies Don McGrath, Kathryn Burton, Walter Chung, Karen Heumann and Jeff Van Deerlin made contributions totaling $1,290 to Aguirre's 2008 re-election bid. Deputy City Attorney John Serrano made a separate $350 donation on Dec. 30, 2006." (OpEd, "Ethical Breach: Aguirre Violates Law On Contributions From Staff," San Diego Union-Tribute, 10/10/2007)

Aguirre Has Declined To Return Calls From SDUT Reporters:

"Aguirre did not return a phone call seeking comment on the city charter violations." (OpEd, "Ethical Breach: Aguirre Violates Law On Contributions From Staff," San Diego Union-Tribute, 10/10/2007)

"Aguirre did not return calls seeking comment yesterday."  (Matthew T. Hall, "Three On Council Staff Took Donations," San Diego Union-Tribute, 10/12/2007)

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