The District Attorney's Public Integrity Unit completed it's review of a complaint made against the Los Osos Community Services District (LOCSD) Board members.
The allegations were made in December 2018 by a member of the public who questioned whether members of the board of directors were improperly compensated.
After an investigation, the district determined that some board members had received more compensation than they were entitled to. As a result, those members repaid what they owed.
According to a press release, the DA's Office reviewed the allegations and records and determined although some board members received more compensation than was authorized, there is insufficient evidence to prove that they sought compensation knowing they were not entitled to it, or that they acted with the high level of recklessness necessary to establish criminal negligence.
"Those who serve on elected or appointed boards and districts within San Luis Obispo County do so as a public service that requires them to give of their time and energy to lead our communities for very nominal financial compensation," said District Attorney Dan Dow. "While I am grateful for their willingness to step forward and lead, it is important for each public official to remember that in conducting the public's business, they are held to a high standard of conduct and scrutiny. The citizens of San Luis Obispo County have the right to expect that their elected and appointed officials will carry out their duties in a lawful, ethical and professional manner. I created our Public Integrity Unit to ensure that they do so or face potential criminal prosecution."
Under California law and LOCSD bylaws, directors are permitted to receive compensation for attending meetings and other qualifying events, typically $100 per meeting. However, a director can be compensated for only one meeting per day and are limited to receive a maximum of $600 per month. In addition, only certain types of meetings and events qualify for compensation.
