FPPC closes Gaasterland case as “disproven.”

UPDATE: FPPC closes Gaasterland case as “disproven.” In our November issue published on Nov. 1, in an “In Brief” item, “Unethical in Del Mar?“ the Sandpiper reported on three FPPC cases involving Del Mar councilmembers or candidates, including one involving Deputy Mayor Terry Gaasterland. On Nov. 6, the FPPC’s Enforcement Division issued a “No Action Closure Letter,” stating, in part:

“This letter is in response to our investigation concerning a complaint alleging you, in your capacity as a member of the Del Mar City Council, violated the Act’s conflict of interest provisions. After conducting our investigation and review, we are closing this matter without further action.

“The Enforcement Division’s investigation determined it was not reasonably foreseeable that the April 17, 2023 governmental decision would have a financial effect on your real property financial interests, due to the financial effect being contingent on intervening events and decisions made by other governmental agencies. Therefore, this matter will be closed as the allegation has been disproven.”