A controversial $114 million deal to purchase three office buildings near the Sonoma County Airport is back on track, according to county officials, despite ongoing concerns from the county’s largest employee union. The deal was temporarily derailed by allegations of “pay-to-play” involving campaign contributions.
SEIU Local 1021 filed a complaint with the state’s campaign finance watchdog, claiming Supervisor David Rabbitt should be disqualified from voting on the deal due to a $1,000 contribution from a real estate broker involved in the purchase. Rabbitt has since returned the contribution.
The Board of Supervisors plans to resume the process at their March 25th meeting, pending a review by the Fair Political Practices Commission. Supervisor Chris Coursey remains opposed to the deal. The purchase of the buildings, intended to consolidate county offices, has been described as a “generational move” by supporters, but critics raise concerns about the purchase price and transparency.
The FPPC’s decision and the county’s request for an “advice letter” will play a crucial role in determining the deal’s future.
