Port Angeles – At the most recent Port of Port Angeles Board of Commissioners meeting, Commissioner Colleen McAleer provided a statement referring to the recent allegations of potential financial fraud by her fellow commissioner and Executive Director of Shore Aquatic Center Steve Burke.
We reported last Friday that the Washington State Auditor’s Office, following an investigation of the Shore Aquatic Center’s finances, had found evidence of potential fraud. The report specifically alleges that Burke personally benefitted from self-insurance payments, at least one Social Security tax refund, and credit card purchases, all totaling over $41,000.
The report said the Pool District lacked adequate internal controls for ensuring compliance with state regulations. The findings were referred to the Clallam County Prosecutor’s Office.
Commissioner McAleer provided the following statement on Wednesday;
“The Port of Port Angeles is aware of recent news reports regarding allegations involving Commissioner Steve Burke. These matters do not involve Port operations or activities. The Port has a very robust financial department with a team of professionals who scrutinize every receipt, purchase, expense and revenue dollar. The Washington State Auditor’s Office audits the Port every year, and the results of those audits can be found online at portofpa.com…All audited and unaudited reports can be found here, as well as the Port’s annual budget. The Port will continue to focus on its mission and services to the community. We are monitoring developments and will provide updates if any impact to Port business may arise. At this time, we do not have any further comments.”
Burke was just reelected to the Port Commission, garnering well over 80% of the vote.