Taxpayer Money Is Not Political Charity

A few years ago, I attended an event at the Crystal Cove Conservancy where Supervisor Katrina Foley announced a financial contribution. Sitting in the audience, it was unclear whether the funds being presented were her own or taxpayer-funded. That moment has stayed with me, because it reflects a deeper concern about how public money is being used—and presented.

Public records show that taxpayer funds have been directed to a range of high-profile, event-driven organizations, including $100,000 to KXFM in Laguna Beach, more than $100,000 to Hoag Memorial Hospital Foundation, $25,000 to Saddleback Medical Center Foundation, and $50,000 each to the Orange Coast College Foundation and Cypress College Foundation. These are institutions that host galas, fundraisers, and donor events where recognition and visibility are part of the culture.

At the same time, there are documented instances where Supervisor Foley has been publicly recognized in gala settings—listed as a sponsor at events like the OC Women Lawyers Association’s Golden Gala and appearing at nonprofit galas such as SPIN OC.

The issue is not whether these organizations do good work. The issue is that taxpayer money is being collected from residents and then redistributed at the discretion of elected officials, who may then appear in the very venues where that money is celebrated.

That is where the line is crossed.

When public funds are presented in these settings, it creates the appearance of personal generosity. Applause is given, recognition is granted, and the official is associated with giving—when in reality, the money came from taxpayers. This is not philanthropy. It is a form of political credit built on public dollars. Many would call that a kind of “stolen valor,” where recognition is received for resources that were never personally given.

Taxpayers should not be put in a position where their money is taken, redirected, and then used in ways that elevate the public image of an elected official. That is not the role of government.

Public officials are stewards—not benefactors. If funds must be allocated, they should be done through transparent, neutral processes that do not resemble personal charity or political branding.

The public deserves clarity, restraint, and accountability—not optics.

Sincerely,
India Hynes

Laguna Beach