Saying "2012 is Over," Mann Will Not Discuss Allegations

Once again, Menifee Mayor Scott Mann chose Wednesday night not to confirm or deny allegations that he took part in a smear campaign against his opponent in the 2012 election.

During Wednesday's City Council meeting, local resident Anne Pica repeated the accusations she made at the Sept. 17 meeting, when Mann was absent. From the speaker's podium, she told council members and the audience that Mann paid for and delivered to her fliers intended to discredit mayoral candidate Darcy Kuenzi, as well as council member Sue Kristjansson -- which would be a violation of the candidates' campaign fair practices pledge.

In addition, campaign finance laws require that all campaign materials be identified with the party that paid for the materials. If it is proven that Mann paid for them, that they are considered campaign materials and that Mann failed to report it as a campaign expense, he could face discipline from the Fair Political Practices Commission.

Pica again called Mann a "hypocrite" for denouncing similar fliers directed against him in the current election.

"I will not be bullied or reprimanded," Pica said. "Why has no action been taken to investigate this?"

By state law, council members are prohibited from engaging in detailed conversations with residents during the public comments portion of public meetings. They may make brief responses. Mann did not respond to Pica and called for the next speaker.

Mann is running against Paul Wiggins for re-election in November.

After the meeting, Mann was asked to respond to Pica's accusations.

Shaking  his head, Mann said, "2012 is over. I'm focusing on 2014 and the future of Menifee."