Investigation: Bothell mayor did not violate ethics rules

BOTHELL, Wash. (AP) — An independent investigation has found that Bothell Mayor Joshua Freed did not violate ethics rules when he bid to purchase the Wayne Golf Course back nine for his private company.

The Seattle Times reports that the report was released to the City Council on Tuesday night.

Investigators said Freed didn't make an offer to purchase the property until the city's own right of first offer had lapsed.

The investigation also cleared City Council member Mark Lamb of any ethics violations. Lamb is the mayor's real-estate attorney and a personal friend.

The investigation didn't satisfy the standing-room only crowd or some of Freed's council colleagues.

Council member Tris Samberg said although it no laws were broken, the situation didn't feel right. He said the council should revise its ethics rules to they're enforceable.

Freed reiterated that he had done nothing illegal or unethical.