Council candidate Steve Sinwell has sent political mail to Clyde Hill residents asking for their vote in the upcoming Council elections. On his postcards, he has been using the City of Clyde Hill logo.
We’ve been told multiple residents have reached out to learn if, and why, the city was endorsing Steve Sinwell. Despite the implication through his use of the official City logo, Steve Sinwell has not been endorsed by the city.
The unauthorized use of government property to further political ambitions should raise questions for residents. In response to one resident’s questions, the city said:
The City has not, and does not, endorse any candidate. Neither did we authorize anyone to utilize our logo. I believe the proper authority to report such a matter to would be the Public Disclosure Commission (PDC). We will send a notice to all candidates asking them to cease use of our logo.
Sinwell isn’t alone in improperly using the city logo. Mayoral candidate Steve Friedman was using the city logo on his website and continues to improperly use the police logo on his website.
The improper use of government property and logos to imply endorsements could violate RCW 42.17A.335 and 42.17A.555.