ASSEMBLYMEMBER AVELINO VALENCIA RELEASES STATEMENT IN RESPONSE TO INDEPENDENT ANAHEIM REPORT
Anaheim, CA (August 01, 2023) – State Assemblymember Avelino Valencia issued the following statement in response to the report put together by the independent commission investigating allegations of corruption in Anaheim. Valencia is a former Anaheim City Councilmember who supported the launch of their investigation in 2022.
“The findings of this report expand on the lack of transparency and abuse of public resources by corrupt individuals in Anaheim. Former Mayor Harry Sidhu, and some of his closest allies, acted for personal and political gain at the expense of what was best for our city. Their behavior was disgraceful and inexcusable. I am hopeful that the City Council will use this report, along with feedback from residents and experts, to bring about needed ethics reforms in Anaheim.
Further, the lack of cooperation by Visit Anaheim and the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce is cause for concern. The potential funneling of tax dollars by these organizations, as highlighted in the independent investigation, demands the need for further examination. As a member of the California Joint Legislative Audit Committee, I will be requesting that the State Auditor conduct an inspection of the usage of public funds received by these entities.
Residents deserve to know the extent of the corruption that took place in the City of Anaheim. It is a critical step in restoring transparency and public trust.”
