10:53 PM PDT on Monday, June 5, 2006

By ANTONIA GIEDWOYN, kgw.com Staff

Former Portland City Council candidate Emilie Boyles must repay more than $100,000 in public campaign funds, according to an Oregon judge who upheld an earlier decision by the city auditor.

KGW photo

Former city council candidate Emilie Boyles.

Boyles must repay the $144,905 she received in public financing and $14,000 in penalties, plus 12 percent interest.

"By spending public funds, Boyles was obligated to ensure she spent those funds only on bona fide services and paid no more that a fair market share. Boyles could have, but did not, take reasonable steps to ensure that happened…,” the final order states.

Boyles was penalized in April and her funding was revoked when she was cited for violations of spending guidelines by prepaying for a one-year lease. She was also cited for additional penalties for paying too much for the services of her daughter as well using public funds to pay for a telephone in her residence and to repay debts to campaign consultants.

"Publicly-funded campaigns have already changed the campaign landscape. When they agree to participate, future candidates must understand that they face a high standard," said City Auditor Gary Blackmer. "When the Auditor's Office finds violations it takes strong action. When Ms. Boyles broke the rules she lost her certification as a publicly financed candidate, and will now need to repay the money plus fines and interest."

The judge’s order is final.