Financial Discrepancy at La Pine Park & Recreation District: Drama unfolded during a La Pine Park & Recreation District Board meeting when Facilities Coordinator Wynn Malikowski confronted Board Member Carlos Soto over a suspicious financial transaction. The issue arose from a $10,000 check written to the La Pine Pickleball Club.
Background of the Discrepancy
Malikowski raised concerns about the $10,000 withdrawal, which was made payable to the club and authorized by Soto in October 2024. Malikowski questioned how Soto, who was not an employee of the district, had access to the district’s account. Soto, also the president of the La Pine Pickleball Club, allegedly endorsed and deposited the check, though Malikowski could not find any record of board approval for the transaction.
The La Pine Pickleball Club had operated under the La Pine Park & Rec District’s account, but until recently, Malikowski believed the two were separate entities. It was only later that he discovered the Pickleball Club had been receiving fees and other funds through the district’s account. Malikowski pointed out that Soto’s access to the district’s account seemed unusual, given that he was not an official employee of the park district.
According to Malikowski, the $10,000 check was written on October 10, 2024, and was endorsed and deposited by Soto the following day. A bank statement from First Interstate Bank confirmed that the check cleared on October 11, 2024.
Soto’s Response to the Allegations
When asked where the money went, Soto said he could not recall. He mentioned that, when operating under the “all-party banner,” the Pickleball Club was not given access to its financial records, despite being told it would be. Soto further explained that he had thought the club had $17,000 in the district’s account, but later learned the money belonged to the district itself.
Both Malikowski and Soto declined interviews regarding the issue. However, Malikowski confirmed that the Oregon State Police are investigating the situation. He also declined to release the documents presented at the meeting to KTVZ for review.
Ongoing Investigation and Potential Consequences
The financial dispute at the La Pine Park & Recreation District has raised significant concerns about the handling of funds. The Oregon State Police are currently investigating the matter, and the community is waiting for more details on the situation.
This incident could lead to further scrutiny of the district’s financial practices and potentially impact future board elections and community trust.
News in Brief: Financial Discrepancy at La Pine Park & Recreation District
A $10,000 check written to the La Pine Pickleball Club has sparked an investigation into suspicious financial activity at the La Pine Park & Recreation District. Board Member Carlos Soto, who was not an employee, authorized the transaction. Oregon State Police are now looking into the matter.
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