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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMayor to Work with the City Attorney to File Complaint(s) on (2) UebTiNG o 2000 Main Street, oFao4$ y� Huntington Beach,CA _ 92648 � 9tlty _ . � City of Huntington Beach APPROVED 6-0-1 oiiNn cF�o (GRUEL-ABSENT) File#: 25-363 MEETING DATE: 5/6/2025 Subject: Item Submitted by Councilman Chad Williams, Mayor Pat Burns, and Councilman Butch Twining Recommended Action: Approve the Mayor to work with the City Attorney to file a complaint(s) on behalf of the City Council with the California Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) and/or the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) regarding suspected campaign finance and charitable law violations. Attachment(s): 1. Councilman Williams, Mayor Burns, and Councilman Twining Memo • City of Huntington Beach Page 1 of 1 Printed on 4/30/2025 powered by LegistarT"" 864 g',OTINGT 0$o`�t ,:? , CITY 0 F HUNTINGTON BEACH --couNTi-ov City Council Meeting - Council Member Items Report To: City Council From: Chad Williams, Councilman; Pat Burns, Mayor; Butch Twining, Councilman Date: May 6, 2025 Subject: SUSPECTED CAMPAIGN FINANCE AND CHARITABLE LAW VIOLATIONS ISSUE STATEMENT We have conducted an informal independent investigation of the financial dealings of the Friends of the Huntington Beach Public Library, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit which reported over$524,000 in grants distributed in 2023. It appears that a portion of those funds were contributed to a political action committee (PAC) Citizens for Good Governance (FPPC ID#1454094)—which at the time was registered as a ballot-measure-specific PAC. It also appears that the PAC subsequently amended its status to become a general-purpose committee, and then transferred $10,000 to Our Library Matters, Vote Yes on A& B (FPPC ID#1478194), a ballot-measure-specific PAC. The same individual appears to serve as treasurer for both the 501(c)(3) and the ballot measure committee. These financial dealings suggests potential violations of IRS law, which generally prohibits 501(c)(3) organizations from participating in political campaigns (IRC § 501(c)(3); §4955). In addition, the California Political Reform Act may have been violated, particularly related to earmarked contributions (Gov. Code § 84302), coordinated expenditures (Title 2 CCR § 18402.2), and failure to accurately disclose the origin and use of campaign funds. RECOMMENDED ACTION Approve the Mayor to work with the City Attorney to file a complaint(s) on behalf of the City Council with the California Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) and/or the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) regarding suspected campaign finance and charitable law violations. ENVIRONMENTAL STATUS Not applicable. STRATEGIC PLAN GOAL Not Applicable-Administrative Item. 2000 Main Street, Huntington Beach,CA 92648 I www.huntingtonbeachca.gov 865 Timeline as I understand, of Contributions from Friends of the Library.to Citizens for Good Governance PAC Filing Date:July,30,2024 Event:CFGG files FPPC Form 460 statement for 2/18/2024 through 06/30/2024 Status:Officially documented as a General Purpose PAC My understanding is that any contributions from a 501(c)(3)are strictly prohibited. Date:August 27,2024 Amount:$6,006.97 Contributor: Friends of the Huntington Beach Library(501(c)(3) Recipient:Citizens for Good Governance(General Purpose PAC) First known contribution. Date: October 18, 2024 Amount:$10,733.18 Contributor: Friends of the Huntington Beach Library Recipient: Citizens for Good Governance Second contribution. Demonstrates an ongoing pattern of campaign intervention. Date: November 22, 2024 Amount:$2,515.67 Contributor:Friends of the Huntington Beach Library Recipient: Citizens for Good Governance Third contribution. Confirms continued activity. Date: November 22, 2024(same day) Amount:$3,814.37 Contributor: Friends of the Huntington Beach Library Recipient: Citizens for Good Governance Fourth contribution, made on the same day. Filing Date:January 31, 2025 Event:CFGG files new Form 460 Disclosed:All above contributions publicly reported COVER PAGE U Recipient Committee Date Stamp Campaign Statement CALIFORNIA 460 Cover Page FORM (Government Code Sections 84200-84216.5) E-Filed Statement covers period Date of election if applicable: 06:56:16:16/2024 Page 1 of 78 (Month, Day, Year) from16:5 02/18/2024 Filing ID: For Official Use Only 211817243 SEE INSTRUCTIONS ON REVERSE through _ 06/30/2024 1. Type of Recipient Committee: All Committees—Complete Parts 1,2,3,and 4. 2. Type of Statement: Officeholder,Candidate Controlled Committee [_ Primarily Formed Ballot Measure ❑ Preelection Statement ❑ Quarterly Statement 0 State Candidate Election Committee Committee ❑X Semi-annual Statement ❑ Special Odd-Year Report 0 Recall )Controlled ❑ Termination Statement (Also CorrpletePart 5) 0 Sponsored (Also file a Form 410 Termination) ❑ Supplemental-AttachPre Formorn (Also complete Part 6) Statement- 495 -XI General Purpose Committee ❑ Amendment(Explain below) Sponsored ❑ Primarily Formed Candidate/ (,)Small Contributor Committee Officeholder Committee 1)Political Party/Central Committee (Also Complete Pan 7) D 3. Committee Information I. 1454094. NU MBER Treasurer(s) COMMITTEE NAME (OR CANDIDATE'S NAME IF NO COMMITTEE) NAME OF TREASURER Citizens for Good Governance Gary Crummitt MAILING ADDRESS STREET ADDRESS(NO P.O. BOX) CITY STATE ZIP CODE AREA CODE/PHONE Long Beach CA 90802 CITY STATE ZIP CODE AREA CODE/PHONE NAME OF ASSISTANT TREASURER, IF ANY Long Beach CA 90802 MAILING ADDRESS(IF DIFFERENT) NO.AND STREET OR P.O. BOX MAILING ADDRESS CITY STATE ZIP CODE AREA CODE/PHONE CITY STATE ZIP CODE AREA CODE/PHONE OPTIONAL: FAX/ E-MAIL ADDRESS OPTIONAL: FAX/E-MAIL ADDRESS gary@crummittandassociates.com 4. Verification I have used all reasonable diligence in preparing and reviewing this statement and to the best of my knowledge the information contained herein and in the attached schedules is true and complete. I certify under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing is true and correct. Executed on 07/23/2024 By Gary Crummitt Date Signature of Treasurer or Assistant Treasurer Executed on By Date Signature of Controlling Officeholder,Candidate.State Measure Proponent or Responsible Officer of Sponsor Executed on By Date Signature of Controlling Officeholder Candidate.Stale Measure Proponent Executed on By Date Signature of Controlling Officeholder,Candidate,State Measure Proponent FPPC Form 460(Jan/2016) FPPC Advice:advice@fppc.ca.gov(866/275-3772) www.netfile.com www.fppc.ca.gov Schedule A (Continuation Sheet) SCHEDULE A (CONT.) Monetary Contributions Received Amounts may be rounded Statement covers period CALIFORNIA �+O to whole dollars. V from 07/01/2024 FORM through 12/31/2024 Page 22 of 102 NAME OF FILER I.D.NUMBER CITIZENS FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE 1454094 DATE FULL NAME,STREET ADDRESS AND ZIP CODE OF CONTRIBUTOR CONTRIBUTOR IF AN INDIVIDUAL, ENTER AMOUNT CUMULATIVE TO DATE PER ELECTION RECEIVED (IF COMMITTEE,ALSO ENTERLD.NUMBER) CODE * OCCUPATION AND EMPLOYER RECEIVED THIS CALENDAR YEAR TO DATE (IF SELF-EMPLOYED,ENTER NAME PERIOD (JAN.1-DEC.31) (IF REQUIRED) OF BUSINESS) 08/27/2024 Friends Of The Huntington Beach Library BIND 6,006.97 23,070.19 Huntington Beach, CA 92648 OCOM ®OTH ❑PTY ❑SCC Schedule A (Continuation Sheet) SCHEDULE A (CONT.) Monetary Contributions Received Amounts may be rounded Statement covers period to whole dollars. CALIFORNIA 460 from 07/01/2024 FORM through 12/31/2024 Page 51 of 102 NAME OF FILER I.D.NUMBER CITIZENS FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE 1454094 DATE CONTRIBUTOR NAME,STREET ADDRESS AND ZIP CODE OF CONTRIBUTOR CONTRIBUTOR IF AN INDIVIDUAL, ENTER AMOUNT CUMULATIVE TO DATE PER ELECTION (IF COMMITTEE,ALSO ENTER I.D.NUMBER) OCCUPATION AND EMPLOYER RECEIVED THIS CALENDAR YEAR TO DATE RECEIVED CODE (IFSELF-EMPLOYEO,ENTERNAME PERIOD (JAN. 1 -DEC.31) (IF REQUIRED) OF BUSINESS) 10/16/2024 411111.1111111 X❑IND Retired 100.00 600.00 ❑COM N/A ❑OTH ❑PTY ❑SCC 10/16/2024 ... MIND Retired 150.00 450.00 ❑COM N/A ❑OTH ❑PTY ❑SCC 10/17/2024 ®IND Retired 100.00 740.00 ❑COM N/A ❑OTH ❑PTY ❑SCC 10/18/2024 X❑IND Retired 150.00 200.00 ❑COM N/A ❑OTH ❑PTV ❑SCC 10/18/2024 Friends Of The Huntington Beach Library ❑IND 10,733.18 23,070.19 Huntington Beach, CA 92648 ❑COM x❑OTH ❑PTY ❑SCC SUBTOTAL$ 11,233.18 Schedule A (Continuation Sheet) SCHEDULE A (CONT.) Monetary Contributions Received Amounts may be rounded Statement covers period to whole dollars. CALIFORNIA 460 from 07/01/2024 FORM through 12/31/2024 page 59 of 102 NAME OF FILER I.D.NUMBER CITIZENS FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE 1454094 DATE FULL NAME,STREET ADDRESS AND ZIP CODE OF CONTRIBUTOR CONTRIBUTOR IF AN INDIVIDUAL, ENTER AMOUNT CUMULATIVE TO DATE PER ELECTION RECEIVED (IF COMMITTEE,ALSO ENTER I.D.NUMBER) CODE * OCCUPATION AND EMPLOYER RECEIVED THIS CALENDAR YEAR TO DATE (IF SELF-EMPLOYED,ENTER NAME PERIOD (JAN.1 -DEC.31) (IF REQUIRED) OF BUSINESS) 11/17/2024 -fMIMIIIIMIIIMx❑IND Trustee 100.00 200.00 pa wCoast Colleges ❑OTH ❑PTY ❑SCC 11/18/2024 RIND Retired 100.00 600.00 II]Dom N/A ❑OTH El PTY El SCC 11/18/2024 IMMAII ) ®IND Retired 100.00 100.00 ❑COM N/A ❑OTH ❑PTY 11/22/2024 Friends Of The Huntington Beach Library ❑IND ❑COM MOTH 2,515.67 23,070.19� Huntington Beach, CA 92648 ❑PTY ❑SCC [11/22/2024 Friends Of The Huntington Beach Library ❑IND 3,814.37 23,070.19 Huntington Beach, CA 92648 [DOOMx❑OTH IIIPTY III SCC 0# SUBTOTALS 6,630.04 SCHEDULE F Schedule F Statement covers period CALIFORNIA 460 Amounts may be rounded Accrued Expenses (Unpaid Bills) to whole dollars. from 07/01/2024 FORM through 12/31/2024 102102 SEE INSTRUCTIONS ON REVERSE Page of NAME OF FILER I.D.NUMBER CITIZENS FOR GOOD GOVERNANCE 1454094 CODES: If one of the following codes accurately describes the payment, you may enter the code. Otherwise, describe the payment. avP campaign paraphernalia/misc. MBR member communications RAD radio airtime and production costs CNS campaign consultants MTG meetings and appearances RFD returned contributions CTB contribution (explain nonmonetary)* OFC office expenses SAL campaign workers' salaries CVC civic donations PET petition circulating TEL t.v. or cable airtime and production costs FIL candidate filing/ballot fees PHO phone banks TRC candidate travel, lodging,and meals FND fundraising events POL polling and survey research TRS staff/spouse travel, lodging, and meals IND independent expenditure supporting/opposing others (explain)* POS postage, delivery and messenger services TSF transfer between committees of the same candidate/sponsor LEG legal defense PRO professional services (legal, accounting) VOT voter registration UT campaign literature and mailings PRT print ads WEB information technology costs (internet, e-mail) NAME AND ADDRESS OF CREDITOR CODE OR (a) (b) (c) (d) OUTSTANDING AMOUNTINCURRED AMOUNT PAID OUTSTANDING (IF COMMITTEE.ALSO ENTER I.D.NUMBER) DESCRIPTION OF PAYMENT BALANCE BEGINNING THIS PERIOD THIS PERIOD BALANCE AT CLOSE OF THIS PERIOD (ALSO REPORT ON E) OF THIS PERIOD All We Print IND Yard signs 1,876.00 0.00 1,876.00 0.00 Huntington Beach, CA 92647 ,supporting Rhonda 'Bolton, Dan Kalmick & Natalie Moser for City Council Bower Law Group PRO 10,000.00 0.00 10,000.00 0.00 Laguna Hills, CA 92653 *Payments that are contributions or independent expenditures must also be SUBTOTALS $ 11,876.00$ 0.00$ 11,876.00$ 0.00 summarized on Schedule D. 497 Contribution Report Amounts may be rounded to whole dollars. 497 CONTRIBUTION REPORT NAME OF FILER Date Stamp 49 7 Our Library Matters, Vote Yes on A i B, Sponsored by Friends of the Date of CALIFORNIA Huntington Beach Public Library This Filing 05/02/2025 FORM AREA CODE/PHONE NUMBER I.D.NUMBER(if applicable) 2025-19 E-Filed For Official Use Only (562)544-4742 1478194 Report No. 025 13:1124 STREET ADDRESS 0 Amendment Filing ID: to Report No. 214226665 CITY STATE ZIP CODE (explain below) Irvine CA 92618 No.of Pages 1 1. Contribution(s) Received IF AN INDIVIDUAL, DATE FULL NAME,STREET ADDRESS AND ZIP CODE OF CONTRIBUTOR CONTRIBUTOR AMOUNT RECEIVED (IF COMMITTEE.ALSO ENTER I D NUMBER) CODE * ENTER OCCUPATIONOVED.E AND EMPLOYER FBUSINESS) RECEIVED (IF SELF-EMPLOYED.ENTER NAME OF BUSINESS) 05/01/2025 Citizens for Good Governance 8,500.00 Fullerton, CA 92835 ❑ IND Committee ID # 1454094 ❑X COM ❑ OTH ❑ Check if Loan ❑ PTY ❑ SCC Provide interest rate ❑ IND ❑ COM ❑ OTH ❑Check if Loan ❑ PTY ❑ SCC Provide interest rate ❑ IND ❑ COM ❑ OTH ❑ Check if Loan ❑ PTY ❑ SCC Provide interest rate 'Contributor Codes IND-Individual COM-Recipient Committee(other than PTY or SCC) OTH-Other(e.g.,business entity) Reason for Amendment: PTY-Political Party SCC—Small Contributor Committee FPPC Form 497(Feb/2019) FPPC Advice:advice©fppc.ca.gov(866/275-3772) w www.netflle.com ww.fppc.ca.gov 497 Contribution Report Amounts may be rounded to whole dollars. 497 CONTRIBUTION REPORT NAME OF FILER Date of Date Stamp Our Library Matters, Vote Yee on A E B, Sponsored by Friends of the CALIFORNIA 497 Huntington Beach Public Library This Filing 04/27/2025 FORM AREA CODE/PHONE NUMBER I.D.NUMBER(ifappecableJ Report NO.2025-17 E-Filed For Official Use Only (562)544-4742 1478194 04/27/2025 STREET ADDRESS 20:51:55 ❑Amendment Filing ID: to Report No. _ 214199065 CITY STATE ZIP CODE (explain below) Irvine CA 92618 No.of Pages 1. Contribution(s) Received IF AN INDIVIDUAL, DATE FULL NAME,STREET ADDRESS AND ZIP CODE OF CONTRIBUTOR CONTRIBUTOR AMOUNT * ENTER OCCUPATION AND EMPLOYER RECEIVED (IF COMMITTEE,ALSO ENTER I.D.NUMBER) CODE (IF SELF-EMPLOYED.ENTER NAME OF BUSINESS) RECEIVED 04/26/2025 Citizens for Good Governance 5,000.00 Fullerton, CA 92835 ❑ IND Committee ID # 1454094 [] COM ❑ OTH ❑Check if Loan ❑ PTY ❑ SCC Provide interest rate ❑ IND ❑ COM ❑ OTH ❑Check if Loan ❑ PTY ❑ SCC Provide interest rat, ❑ IND ❑ coM ❑ OTH ❑Check if Loan ❑ PTY ❑ SCC Provide interest rate 'Contributor Codes IND-Individual COM-Recipient Committee(other than PTY or SCC) OTH-Other(e.g.,business entity) PTY-Political Party Reason for Amendment: SCC-Small Contributor Committee FPPC Form 497(Feb/2019) FPPC Advice:advice@fppc.ca.gov(866/275-3772) www.fppc.ca.gov www.netfile.com 497 Contribution Report Amounts may be rounded to whole dollars. 497 CONTRIBUTION REPORT NAME OF FILER Date of Date Stamp CALIFORNIA 497 Our Library Matters, Vote Yes on A a B This Filing 04/08/2025 FORM AREACODE/PHONE NUMBER I.D.NUMBER(if applicable) f For Official Use Only 2025-8 E-Filet Report No. 04/08/2025 (562)544-4742 1478194 13:36.3a STREET ADDRESS ❑ Amendment Filing ID: to Report No. , 214128650 � CITY STATE ZIP CODE (explain below) No.of Pages 1 Irvine CA 92618 1. Contribution(s) Received IF AN INDIVIDUAL, DATE FULL NAME,STREET ADDRESS AND ZIP CODE OF CONTRIBUTOR CONTRIBUTOR AMOUNT CODE RECEIVED (IF COMMITTEE.ALSO ENTER I0 NUMBER) * ENTER OCCUPATION NDE FB(IF SELF-EMPLOYED, ENTTERER NAME OF BUSINESS) USINESS) RECEIVED 04/08/2025 Citizens for Good Governance 5,000.00 Fullerton, CA 92835 ❑ IND Committee ID # 1454094 ❑X COM ❑ OTH ❑ Check if Loan ❑ PTY ❑ SCC Provide interest rate ❑ IND ❑ COM ❑ OTH 0 Check if Loan ❑ PTY ❑ SCC Provide interest rate ❑ IND ❑ COM ❑ OTH 0 Check if Loan ❑ PT( ❑ SCC Provide interest rate 'Contributor Codes IND-Individual COM-Recipient Committee(other than PTY or SCC) OTH-Other(e.g.,business entity) Reason for Amendment: PTY-PoliticalParty SCC-Small Contributor Committee FPPC Form 497(Feb/2019) FPPC Advice: advice@fppc.ca.gov(866/275-3772) www.netfile.com www.Tppc.ca.gov Friends Of The Huntington Beach Public Library - Full Filing - Nonprofit Explorer - ProPublica 3/7/25, 3:32 PM (efile Public Visual Render I ObjectId: 202413189349308146 - Submission: 2024-11-13 I TIN: 23-71776231 Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax OMB No. 1545-0047 F.99 O Under section 501(c), 527, or 4947(a)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code (except private foundations) 2023 Do not enter social security numbers on this form as it may be made public. ov open to Public Go to www.irs.go v/Form990 of the Treasury /Form990 for instructions and the latest information. T- - ection Internal Revenue Service A For the 2023 calendar year, or tax year beginning 01-01-2023 , and ending 12-31-2023 B Check if applicable: C Name of organization D Employer identification number Address change FRIENDS OF THE HUNTINGTON BEACH LIBRARY Public Library 23-7177623 Name change Initial return Doing business as Final return/terminated Amended return E Telephone number Number and street(or P.O. box if mail is not delivered to street address) Room/suite Application pending 7111 TALBERT AVENUE (714) 842-4481 City or town, state or province, country, and ZIP or foreign postal code HUNTINGTON BEACH,CA 92648 G Gross receipts $ 729,438 F Name and address of principal officer: H(a) Is this a group return for 7111 TALBERT AVENUE subordinates? Yes In No HUNTINGTON BEACH.CA 926481232 H(b) Are all subordinates Yes No included? Tax-exempt status: Q 501(c)(3) 501(c) ( ) (insert no.)) 4947(a)(1) or 527 If "No," attach a list. See instructions. weosite:cr N/A H(c) Group exemption number K Form of organization: Corporation Trust Association J Other L Year of formation: 1967 M State of legal domicile: CA Summary 1 Briefly describe the organization's mission or most significant activities: SUPPORT PUBLIC LIBRARY OPERATIONS & MATERIALS v 2 Check this box �' k II I- I I •II II -ass- • III - III III .I •I- . Friends Of The Huntington Beach Public Library - Full Filing - Nonprofit Explorer - ProPublica 3/7/25, 3:32 PM a21 Total liabilities (Part X, line 26) 0 ZLL 22 Net assets or fund balances. Subtract line 21 from line 20 . . . . . 2,647,410 2,729,075 Signature Block Under penalties of perjury, I declare that I have examined this return, including accompanying schedules and statements, and to the best of my knowledge and belief, it is true, correct, and complete. Declaration of preparer(other than officer) is based on all information of which preparer has any knowledge. I 2024-11-13 Sign Signature of officer Date Her JOE DRAGICEVICH Treasurer Type or print name and title Print/Type preparer's name Preparer's signature Date PTIN Check if P02048516 Paid self-employed Preparer Firm's name Rea Whitehead &Associates Inc Firm's EIN 83-0977628 Use Only Firm's address 19900 Beach Blvd Ste G Phone no. (714) 536-3200 Huntington Beach, CA 92648 May the IRS discuss this return with the preparer shown above? See Instructions. 2 Yes No For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the separate instructions. Cat. No. 11282Y Form 990 (2023) Page 2 Form 990 (2023) Page 2 Statement of Program Service Accomplishments Check if Schedule 0 contains a response or note to any line in this Part Ill 0 1 Briefly describe the organization's mission: SUPPORT PUBLIC LIBRARY OPERATIONS & MATERIALS 2 Did the organization undertake any significant program services during the year which were not listed on the prior Form 990 or 990-EZ? Yes 12 No If"Yes," describe these new services on Schedule O. 3 Did the organization cease conducting, or make significant changes in how it conducts, any program services? Yes 0 No Statement of Organization Date Stamp CALIFORNIA 410 Recipient Committee CITY OF E �I STING i 0+! BEACHFORM Statement Type ®Initial 0 Amendment 0 Termination—See Part 5(L For Official Use Only Not yetor 2 qualified 25 J/ C 28 f 11 12: 1 0 0 Date qualification threshold met Dale qualification threshold met Date of termination _/_,/ ___/_/ / / 1. Committee Information I.D. Number 2. Treasurer and Other Principal Officers rd oov!Irwe NAME OF COMMITTEE NAME OF TREASURER ( Joe Dragieevich Our Library Matters STREET ADDRESS(NO P.O.BOX) CITY STATE 2IP CODE Long Beach CA 90803 EMAIL ADDRESS OF TREASURER(REQUIRED) AREA CODE/PHONE STREET ADDRESS(NO P.O.BOX) jadcvd@gmail.com (562)544-4 742 NAME OF ASSISTANT TREASURER,IF ANY CITY STATE ZIP CODE AREA CODE/PHONE Jen Slater Irvine CA 92618 (562)544-4742 'STREET ADDRES51NO P.O.BOx) CITY STATE ZIP CODE Full MAILING ADDRESS(IF DIFFERENT) Irvine CA 92618 EMAIL ADDRESS OF ASSISTANT TREASURER(REQUIRED) AREA CODE/PHONE E-MAIL ADDRESS OF COMMITTEE(REQUIRED)/FAA(OPTIONAL) info@caxopaign-compl iance.cool (949)858-7448 info@campaign-compliance.cos NAME OF PRINCIPAL OFFICERIS) COUNTY OF DOMICILE JURISDICTION WHERE COMMITTEE IS ACTIVE Joe Dragicevich Orange Huntington Beach S PEET ADDRESS(NO PO.BOX) CITY STATE ZIP CODE -�� Long Beach CA 90803 EMAIL ADDRESS OF PRINCIPAL OFFICERS)(REQUIRED) AREA CODE/PHONE Attach additional information on appropriately labeled continuation sheets. adcvdl? i1.com j gma (562)544-4742 3. Verification I have used all reasonable diligence in preparing this statement and to the best of my knowledge the information contained herein is true and complete. I certify under penalty of perjury under the laws of the Sta oing is true and correct. 4a (Code: ) (Expenses $ 524,420 including grants of$ ) (Revenue $ DONATION TO SUPPORT PUBLIC LIBRARY OPERATIONS AND MATERIALS. 4b (Code: ) (Expenses $ including grants of$ ) (Revenue$ VOLUNTEER HOURS-LIBRARY OPERATION AND PROGRAM SUPPORT. CONTRIBUTED APPROXIMATELY 20,000 HOURS 4c (Code: ) (Expenses $ including grants of$ ) (Revenue$ SOLICITATION/SALES/RENTAL-USED BOOKS-STAFFED BY VOLUNTEERS AT LIBRARY. PROVIDED 10,000 BOOKS. 4d Other program services (Describe in Schedule O.) (Expenses $ including grants of $ ) (Revenue $ 4e Total program service expenses 524,420 Form 990 (2023) Form 990 (2023) Page 3 Checklist of Required Schedules Yes No 1 Is the organization described in section 501(c)(3) or 4947(a)(1) (other than a private foundation)? If"Yes,"complete Yes Schedule A t 1 2 Is the organization required to complete Schedule B, Schedule of Contributors? See instructions. . . 2 No https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/237177623/202413189349308146/full Page 2 of 31 Friends Of The Huntington Beach Public Library - Full Filing - Nonprofit Explorer - ProPublica 3/7/25, 3:32 PM 3 Did the organization engage in direct or indirect political campaign activities on behalf of or in opposition to candidates No for public office? If"Yes," complete Schedule C, Part 1 3 4 Section 501(c)(3) organizations. Did the organization engage in lobbying activities, or have a section 501(h) election in effect during the tax year? If"Yes,"complete Schedule C, Part ll 4 No From: Fikes.Cathy To: 5uoolementalcommCalsurfcity-hb.orq Subject: Fw:Agenda Item May 6,2025 Date: Thursday,May 1,2025 9:35:14 AM Attachments: Screen Shot 2025-04-28 at 5.00.53 PM.onq From: Richard McNeil <spankyc64@gmail.com> Sent:Thursday, May 1, 2025 7:25 AM To: Burns, Pat<Pat.Burns@surfcity-hb.org> Cc: CITY COUNCIL(INCL. CMO STAFF)<city.council@surfcity-hb.org> Subject:Agenda Item May 6, 2025 Some people who received this message don't often get email from spankyc64Cc�gmail.corn. I earn why this is important Dear Mr. Burns, I'm writing in regard to proposed filing of complaints with FCCP and IRS over suspected campaign finance violations. It's just my opinion, but this reeks of desperation and another in a series of escalating attacks against a cherished HB institution. In the interest of transparency can you comment on Ed Laird/HB People's Action Committee PAC?Specifically,while I'm not a campaign finance expert, it seems odd that PAC is showing no contributions in the last six months, but they are funding no on A/B material. In similar fashion to the complaint being made against FOTL, money has flowed back and forth between Chad's PAC, HBPAC, and multiple, if not all sitting council members. Mr.Twining and Mr. Kennedy are seen in recent video working directly with HBPAC crew prepping signs in one of the PAC's offices. Mr.Williams and Mrs.Van Der Mark will be hosting an event in that same office on May 14. Maybe that is commonplace, but continued statements that these PACS are run by private individuals with no ties to city rings hollow. Thanks for your time. Respectfully, Richard McNeil SUPPLEMENTAL COMMUNICATION Meeting Date: 5/6/2025 Agenda Item No. 29 (25-363) x � J.dx eSi n . — x ,. --..„!%!,,i-,,,„ . la- - "q a 0 a r� y x°i / • F . 00 1 _ .;Jilt; r p, s i k N A, F� w. ;:t4. . - . 4 // \ yy aft s_ .V ,•r . y r ����;� .€r::'�:�j1M t ..w•► fit...,- `+... �. ..•.-.'".,,.sa ` ., .. . -•,1-•••••..-...-*,.-41r,:',174-.4k! :44.4.,..0.,i'4---• 4.• 41/1r '.. 4.••V ' .kit'-'4. . . :/ � --RK .-:.�•. {Pam_. �' ''�� ,... .,,tYP . `_ i.'GiN a From: Hieu Pham To: suoolementalcommB surfcity-hb.orq Cc: CITY COUNCIL(INCL.CMO STAFF1; Burns.Pat; McKeon,Casey; Kennedy.Don;Van Der Mark.Gracey;Twining, Butch;Williams,Chad• Gruel,Andrew Subject: OPPOSE Agenda Item 25-363(May 6,2025 City Council Meeting Agenda) Date: Thursday,May 1,2025 4:22:08 PM Some people who received this message don't often get email from hieu.pham8@proton.me. I earn why this is jmoortant Dear Mayor Burns, Mayor Pro Tern McKeon, and Members of the City Council: I am writing to strongly oppose the proposed agenda item directing the City to use taxpayers dollars and limited City resources to file complaints against the Friends of the Huntington Beach Public Library. This request appears to be a politically motivated effort to discredit a respected nonprofit organization with a decades-long record of service to our community. The Friends have provided hundreds of thousands of dollars and tens of thousands of volunteer hours that benefit residents of all ages. Suggesting they are operating improperly—based solely on donations related to a ballot measure—is misleading, legally questionable, and deeply concerning. As the IRS and FPPC both make clear, 501(c)(3) nonprofits are allowed to engage in limited ballot measure advocacy, as long as it is properly reported. The memo behind this agenda item fails to present any clear evidence of wrongdoing. Instead, it relies on innuendo and legal half-truths to cast doubt on an organization that is simply exercising its rights under the law. What's more troubling is that the elected officials pushing this investigation have direct financial and leadership roles in the campaign opposing Measures A& B. This conflict of interest undermines the legitimacy of their accusations and raises serious questions about whether City resources are being used for political retaliation. I urge the full City Council to reject this agenda item. Our local government should be focused on serving the public—not using taxpayer dollars to pursue baseless investigations against community groups that happen to disagree with those in power. Respectfully, Hieu Pham hieu.pham8@proton.me From: Sue Welfrinoer To: suoolementalcomm(d�surfcity-hb.ory Subject:. Oppose#29.25-363 Witch Hunt against the Friends of the Library Date: Sunday,May 4„2025 8:31:15 AM Dear 2025 Huntington Beach Mayor and.Council,, I never imagined our city being run by extreme bibliophobes.And yet, here we are. I oppose Item#29 submitted by Councilman Chad Williams, Mayor Pat Burns, and Councilman.Butch Twining.Your"independent research" is a stabbing insult to tens of thousands of volunteers who,for over50 years, have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars to purchase books,and other materials not in the library's budget. I'm curious:what volunteer work you done to raise money for anything other than your political aspirations? This item is undeniably a politically based attempt to redirect attention from your poorly planned PORN signs. Please reconsider this item and do not waste city money and staff time on this worthless witch hunt. It's bad,enough you were irresponsible with funds to call a special election because of political reasons.Stop the irresponsible spending and focus on true matters of our city-business development, beautification, infrastructure, safety, and human services. Regards, . Sue Welfringer Resident since 1997 SUPPLEMENTAL CQMMl1NIcATION Meetingrate; 5/6/2025 Agenda Item Na. 29 (25-363) From: Sharon To: suoolementalcommCalsurfcity-hb.orq;CITY COUNCIL,(INCL.CMO STAFF Subject Opposed to 25-363 Date: Sunday,May 4,2025 10:12:37 PM Youd'on t o ten get ematt from hathawaystee©attnet Darn why this is important a As a resident for more than 25 years, and a volunteer at the Huntington Beach Central Library since moving here, I continue to volunteer here due to the dedication by the wonderful staff and other volunteers, to all those that come to this place. I have been a member of the Friends of the Huntington Beach Library for more than 20 years, due to their mission in providing enriching programs, building awareness to support the library, and each year provides a financial donation to the city, based on the city's request for Library projects,books, and other educational needs. Over the years,this has totaled millions of dollars. Now, as a member of the FOTL board, it is incredibly sad that the governing body of the city has chosen to not only try to destroy the reputations of professional, dedicated and educated Librarians with slanderous lies and innuendos,to insult all parents by trying to take away their choice on what their children and teenagers read with a politically appointed other set of parents, but to now try to disparage the FOTL, because they support the library as it is. The tactics shown by Mayor Burns and Councilmen Twining and Williams in introducing 25- 363, is right out of the same playbook that is being used at the federal level. Create a - distraction and make false statements in hopes someone will consider it. What would be more appropriate would be a Council Member Items Report that just says "Thank you FOTL for your ongoing support of the Huntington Beach Library system." Sharon Hathaway Sent from AT&T Yahoo Mail on Android From: Mark Tonkovicjl To: suoolementalcomo alsurfcity-hb.orq Subject 25-363 Date: Monday,May 5,2025 11:15:13 AM Dear City Council, I am not able to attend the CC meeting on May 6th but would like to express my thoughts.In general, I strongly support you on the No Vote on the library and am aghast at the destruction being done to the Vote No signs.I hope the people behind the destruction are caught and penalized.I also back you on 25-363 looking into the information that appears to be campaign finance and charitable violations.Upon review,it should be forwarded to the appropriate parties to address the situation.Thank you. Mark Tonkovich From: bbenton955(@aol.com To: suoolementalcomm(a surfcaty-hb.orq Subject: Measure A and B Date: Monday,May 5,2025 12:51:03 PM You don t often get-email from bbenton9SS@aol cam I pain why this is important Dear City Council Members, I am writing today to object to Agenda items 25-336 and 25-337. These items must be voted on by the full City Council and receive majority votes. Also, Agenda Item 25-363 is not in the best interests of the City of Huntington Beach residents. It is beyond the defined responsibilities of the City Council, and will only invite costly litigation. Bonnie Benton From: ;an Madnick To: suoolementalcommi5 surfcity-hb.orq Subject: Agenda Item 25-363 Date: Monday,May 5,2025 3:45:21 PM I am appalled at this Agenda Item. In a time when our budgetary issues have/should be the focus of this City Council,you decide instead to wage war on our Non-profit organizations in HB. Last month it was a broad swath of Non-profits under attack by your"special commission". Now,in the heat of the special election,you try to tip the balance towards your stance on Measure A and B by attacking The Friends of the Library. UNBELIEVABLE!!! This non-profit volunteer organization,whose only goal is to help support our incredible library system by offering used books for sale;a lovely gift shop;and providing well-loved programming,plus donating hundreds of thousands of dollars TO THE LIBRARY, is unworthy of your baseless attacks. If YOU ARE really interested in having the IRS investigate organizations that should lose their non-profit status,perhaps your time would be better spent evaluating the non-profit status of Calvalry Chapel at the Harbor. I'm pretty certain that handing out political materials(like signs)to people as they're departing church would be a problematic practice: Maybe there will come a time when you can actually stop the political theater in HB and actually do the work the citizens expect of you. I guess I can dream, Jan Madnick 43 year citizen From: Elaine Parker To: suoolementalcomm(Thsurfcity-hb.orq Subject: Agenda Item 25-363 for May 6,2025 Date: Monday,May 5,2025 4:38:29 PM 777 You don t often get erna,(€�rom`eprnmrp1@gnat!com lrparnlwhy this€s 1€ portant This letter is being written to oppose the idea of investigating the Friends of the Library of Huntington Beach for campaign finance violations. It seems nothing more than a political tactic against an organization that does so much for our cherished library. The Friends, over the years, have donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to our library and countless volunteer hours. These dollars and hours have put the Friends of the Library in a most trusted position with the residents of Huntington Beach. The Friends donations have benefited the library,the city residents of Huntington Beach and all others who use and love our library. To think they have violated that trust and done something improper, is legally questionable. The act of engaging in a limited ballot measure is allowed for 501(c)(3) organizations as long as it is properly reported. I venture to guess that the Friends have done their homework and filed all required reports. Why is the City Council using taxpayers dollars to pursue this unsubstantiated investigation against an organization that does not happen to agree with the present council? It does seem odd that our elected officials are pursuing this line especially when they have a vested interest in opposing Measures A and B. It appears that the council has a definite conflict of interest. I urge the council to reject this item which appears to be nothing more than vindictive. Sincerely Elaine MacLeod Parker From: Fikes.Cathy To: suoolementalcommralsurfcity-hb.orq Subject: FW:Vote NO,on item 29,a councilmember item re Friends of the Library. Date: Monday,May 5,2025 6:57:57 PM From: Dan Jamieson<danjamieson4@gmail.com> Sent: Monday, May 5, 2025 5:52 PM To:CITY COUNCIL(INCL. CMO STAFF)<city.council@surfcity-hb.org> Subject:Vote NO,on item 29, a councilmember item re Friends of the Library. Some people who received this message don't often get email from danjamieson4@gmail.com.Learn why this is important City.Council@surfcity-hb.org Dear HB City Council: Please remove, or vote NO, on item 29, a councilmember item re Friends of the Library. • The item represents that an"informal" investigation has found possible violations by Friends of the Library in advocating for Measures A &B. • The City Attorney should not be involved in advocating for one side or the other in a political fight. If councilmembers wish to file political complaints with appropriate authorities,they are free to do so on their own. This item does not belong on the council agenda. Sincerely, Dan Jamieson Huntington Beach