FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Investigation Report of Former Councilmember on Hold
Oak Harbor, WA– March 14, 2025 - The City of Oak Harbor has been receiving numerous questions regarding the release of the investigation report related to a former councilmember. Mayor Pro Tempore Hizon made a statement during the February 18th Council Meeting regarding Council’s consideration of Resolution 25-05 regarding the investigation involving a former councilmember. The final report was provided to current councilmembers on January 30, 2025, and to the subject of the investigation by email and certified mail on February 18, 2025.
The City has received multiple public records requests for the investigation report.
In accordance with the Public Records Act, the City sent third-party notice of the requests to both the complainant and the subject of the investigation, allowing for the opportunity to review and respond. The complainant waived review. However, the subject of the investigation has not yet authorized unredacted release of the investigation report to all requestors. The subject of the investigation has until March 21, 2025, to file for an injunction. Until the City receives a release from the subject of the investigation, it will hold the release of the report to all requestors.
“The City has the report ready to release to those who have submitted public records requests,” said Public Records Officer Nicole Bradley. “However, if someone indicates their intent to hold it while they review third-party requests from other requestors, we must await their formal decision before proceeding with any release.”
The City is prepared to release the report as soon as the subject of the investigation so authorizes; the City is committed to transparency and will continue to comply with all public records laws.
For additional information, contact:
Magi Aguilar
Communications Officer
maguilar@oakharbor.org