Senator Glenneda Zuiderveld calls for accountability in ISU and Bannock County’s embezzlement of public funds – Idaho Dispatch

Senator Zuiderveld’s demands:

1. Responsibility for embezzlement:
   Senator Zuiderveld is calling for clear accountability measures to address the violations committed by ISU and Bannock County officials.
2. Comprehensive investigation by the Attorney General:
   She urges the Idaho Attorney General’s Office to launch a comprehensive investigation into the actions of both companies to determine the extent of the wrongdoing and bring all those responsible to justice.
3. Immediate return of funds to the General Fund:
   The senator is calling for the entire $853,700 to be immediately returned to the state general fund because the law requires unspent funds to be returned to the state.
4. Legislative review of one-time funds:
   To prevent future misuse of taxpayer dollars, Senator Zuiderveld is calling on the Idaho Legislature to audit all one-time appropriations to ensure compliance with state law and confirm that the funds are being spent as intended.

Background:

In 2022, the Idaho Legislature appropriated $900,000 for operating expenses related to the EIFPC, with a requirement that all funds be spent on the project or returned to the state by June 30, 2023. Instead of returning the unspent funds as required, Idaho State University (ISU) transferred the funds to Bannock County, circumventing the obligation to return unspent funds to the state. Bannock County then withheld the funds and misused them for unrelated expenses – currently only $638,318 remains in the account. The issue first came to light when Bannock County Commissioner John Crowder raised concerns about the possible mismanagement of those tax dollars at a recent public meeting.

Statement from Senator Zuiderveld:

“This is not just about non-compliance with procedure – this is about a breach of public trust,” said Senator Zuiderveld. “As your Senator, I am committed to ensuring transparency and accountability in the use of taxpayer dollars. Those responsible for this misconduct must answer for their actions, and we must take swift action to restore trust in our government.”

Senator Zuiderveld emphasized the importance of protecting the interests of taxpayers and ensuring strong financial management in the state. “This is non-negotiable,” she concluded.

For further information please contact Senator Glenneda Zuiderveld.

Contact:
Senator Glenneda Zuiderveld
Phone: 208-280-0716
Email: [email protected]

Tags: Bannock County, Glenneda Zuiderveld, Idaho Attorney General, Idaho State University, Pocatello, Raul Labrador