Re Election Or Not DA Needs To Investigate Pougnet Ties

Update Despite his dropping out of the race, DA Mike Hestrin needs to investigate Steve Pougnet and his ties.

First of all, congratulations to the Desert Sun and reporters Barrett Newkirk and Skip Descant for their recent investigative series on Palm Springs Mayor Steve Pougnet and his ties to developer Richard Meaney and the companies controlled by Meaney.

I first met Steve Pougnet a dozen years ago when he was a candidate for the Palm Springs City Council. I have gotten to know the mayor well over the years and have a tremendous amount of respect for him as an individual. He actually cares about his city and not just downtown. Of the 4 mayors who have been in charge since I have covered the area, he has easily been the best.

But personal feelings aside, his relationship with Richard Meaney and Meaney's Union Abbey Development needs to be explored for possible instances of influence peddling. That is why I believe Riverside DA Mike Hestrin needs to take action. While I am not saying that Mr. Pougnet is guilty of anything, this does not look good.

There have also been questions raised of possible conflict of interest votes by Pougnet while dealing with matters relating to Meaney. The mayor was employed for 2 years at a rate of a 100 grand a year by Union Abbey.  Union lost its business license over nonpayment of taxes a few years back. The mayor has severed his ties with the company. But that is not enough.

The above paragraph highlights some interesting but  I believe, ultimately inconsequential issues.

The reason I am calling for the DA to investigate is that is has been no adequate explanation as to what the mayor did for that 200 grand. He claims he was briefing Mr. Meaney on downtown development matters and Measure J funds. But isn't that the job of the city's Economic Development Department? And I believe they do that for free.

The citizens of Palm Springs need to be clear on what the mayor did for Union Abbey. Did he participate in any meetings with potential investors? Can his employment activities in any manner be construed as influence peddling?  These are questions that need to be explored and answered. Only the DA can do so!!

It gives me no pleasure in making this request. And the usual, "We will neither confirm or deny," is not what the DA should be saying in regards to this. For the record, I am aware that his office has already stated this to one local media outlet.

I have invited the mayor to appear on my show to discuss this matter. He says he will at a later date. I hope so. But now is the time for these questions to be answered.

Steve Kelly can beard on 1450 KPTR from 4p to 6p PDT daily and on Eye Heart Radio.