Richmond, VA – An investigation by Richmond’s inspector general has uncovered multiple instances of financial mismanagement, policy violations, and abuse of authority by the city’s General Registrar, Keith Balmer, and his office. The detailed report, compiled by Inspector General James Osuna, highlights over two dozen allegations that have raised serious concerns about Balmer’s conduct and the handling of taxpayer funds within the Office of Elections.
Excessive Spending and Misuse of Funds
One of the most significant findings in the report involves the misallocation of public funds. Balmer is accused of entering into a $200,000 security contract in January 2024 without following the proper procurement process. According to the investigation, the city already had an existing security contract, making the new agreement both unnecessary and wasteful. This was just one of several instances where Balmer’s spending was deemed excessive and inappropriate.
Between July and November 2023, Balmer authorized the purchase of high-end office furniture, totaling more than $14,000. The report cites examples such as a $2,189 leather sofa and a $1,159 oak desk, despite the availability of more cost-effective options. Additionally, Balmer oversaw the hiring of VCU students to paint murals in the Office of Elections’ lobby, costing the city $7,500. Another $8,793 was spent on artwork from a local art center.
Security Concerns and Unnecessary Expenditures
The investigation also sheds light on Balmer’s decision to hire personal security, despite no specific threats against him. The report details how the Registrar employed two security guards, who accompanied him to various meetings, events, and even a marathon, accumulating $24,726.15 in security costs. These expenditures included hotel accommodations and the guards’ working hours.
Furthermore, the Deputy General Registrar reportedly used a city-issued P-Card to purchase a firearm and security equipment for a temporary employee. This purchase, which violated city policy, was made despite warnings from the city’s Security Manager against acquiring the weapon.
Policy Violations and Abuse of Authority
In addition to financial mismanagement, the report highlights a series of policy violations within the Office of Elections. These include improper use of city vehicles for personal purposes, violations of meal and travel reimbursement policies, and the purchase of alcohol during work hours on government-issued credit cards. The investigation also found several instances where alcoholic beverages were charged to the city, in clear contravention of city policies on non-allowable expenses.
The Deputy General Registrar was also implicated in mishandling employee complaints. One particular case involved a report of harassment that was allegedly destroyed after an employee withdrew their complaint, though the employee later denied retracting the allegation. Furthermore, the report documents an instance where Balmer’s spouse was hired for consulting services, which constitutes a clear violation of the city’s nepotism policies.
Response from City Officials
The findings of the investigation have prompted swift condemnation from city officials. Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney expressed his disapproval of the actions, emphasizing the need for accountability in the handling of taxpayer dollars. “The actions that have occurred at the Richmond Office of Elections are simply unacceptable,” said Mayor Stoney in a statement. “The taxpayers of Richmond deserve accountability, which is why I expect the Electoral Board to take appropriate action immediately.”
Richmond City Council members also voiced their concerns, calling for a thorough review and response from the Commonwealth of Virginia’s Richmond Electoral Board. “Now that the report documenting these abuses has been made public, the Richmond City Council is asking the Electoral Board to thoroughly review and respond to the findings,” the Council stated in a release.
Conclusion
While the allegations uncovered in the report do not directly affect the integrity of the election process, they raise significant concerns about the management of public resources and the behavior of city officials. With the investigation now complete, city leaders are calling for swift corrective action to address the wasteful spending, policy violations, and abuse of authority within the Richmond Office of Elections.
