Today, the City Attorney released the draft investigation results into the actions of Portland's former parking meter manager, Ellis McCoy.
From the City Attorney's memo:
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) began an investigation into Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) Parking Manager, Ellis McCoy for bribes and kickbacks. The City of Portland was made aware of this investigation on August 10, 2011, when the FBI served subpoenas on the City requiring records be produced.
The Mayor immediately requested the City Attorney conduct an internal investigation into Mr. McCoy's actions as a City employee. The City's internal investigation began and was largely completed under City Attorney Linda Meng. This is a response to what we learned from the FBI as they gathered evidence from McCoy's personal bank accounts through subpoena.
The investigation is divided into five parts:
- Establish overall timeline for review of steps, processes and results of processes including contracts, RFPs, discipline investigations. Ombudsman investigation information, other relevant events.
- Complete research on parking meters, product comparison, survey of comparable cities.
- Analyze procurement process for meter contracts, including identification of the members of the selection committees, who chose and prepared the materials for evaluation, how decisions were made. Review post-contract changes in procurement processes.
- Review paystation security for areas of vulnerability regarding cash and credit card transactions.
- Conduct disciplinary investigation of Ellis McCoy based on new information received as a result of the FBI investigation.
In summary, as PBOT released to you in November 2011:
The City received a good deal on parking meters. Draft results show that the average price per unit for the Auditor's similar cities is $8,722; for cities with Cale units is $8,122; and for all cities is $8,355. Portland's price per unit is $7,650. Draft results show that the average price for monthly service per unit for similar cities is $45; for cities with Cale units is $43; and for all cities is $45. Portland's price per unit is $26.
Additionally, the City has already made changes in Human Resources rules, procurement processes and security protocols. Also of note is that if Mr. McCoy had not resigned, the City would have terminated him for cause after the FBI, through subpeona power, was able to reveal new evidence to the Mayor and City Attorney.
The Mayor met with U.S. Attorney Amanda Marshall and asked for the federal government's advice and help in preventing corruption cases going forward. Currently, the U.S. Attorney is reviewing this draft investigation and will provide follow up. With new information, the Mayor may be making additional policy and protocol recommendations before the end of the year.
City Attorney memo
Exhibit 1 - Timeline
Exhibit 2 - Parking Meter Surveys
Exhibit 3- Procurement Processes
Exhibit 4 - Security Protocols
Exhibit 5 - HR Investigation
