Former U.S. Attorney Mike McKay to Lead Internal Port Investigation

The Port of Seattle Commission voted to hire former U.S. Attorney Mike McKay to conduct an internal investigation at the Port of Seattle. Port Commissioner Bill Bryant, who chairs the Port Commission's Special Investigatory Committee, cited McKay's experience with similar investigations as a key factor in the selection. "Mike's commitment to public service and the integrity he demonstrated as U.S. Attorney make him the right person to oversee this investigation," Bryant said. "I believe his expertise will ensure this investigation is as thorough as possible."

McKay served as U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Washington from 1989 until 1993. In 1999, he served on a committee which investigated certain allegations of wrongdoing at the Seattle Police Department and made recommendations on how the SPD could better investigate itself. He just completed service on the Seattle Police Accountability Review Panel, which reviewed the 1999 model and made 29 recommendations for improvement. He also served as Vice Chair of the Citizens' Commission on Salaries for Elected Officials, having been appointed by the Washington State Supreme Court. He has conducted numerous internal investigations of government and private entities.

"I am honored to assist Commissioners Bryant and Tarleton with this investigation," said McKay. "I am committed to conducting a full inquiry into the contracting policies, procedures and practices at their port."

The Port Commission created the Special Investigatory Committee in January. The purpose of the internal investigation is to follow up on the recent SAO performance audit and to make additional recommendations. At an upcoming public meeting, Bryant and Tarleton will announce the work plan and budget for the investigation, which will conclude with a report to the full Commission in public session.

Commission President John Creighton noted that McKay is an excellent choice to lead the investigation. "This investigatory committee represents a significant portion of the Commission's response to the recent audit," he said. "We have demonstrated our commitment to examining Port practices and quickly establishing needed reforms. Mike will provide excellent guidance to the committee as they pursue their work."

"The Port cannot fulfill its mission of creating economic growth for the region without the public's trust," Commissioner Tarleton noted. "A key step in regaining that trust is conducting a complete investigation into our business practices. And when it is complete, we will act quickly to make any necessary reforms."

"This investigation will come to whatever conclusion the facts and evidence demand," said Bryant, "and will conclude with recommended changes to the Port's compliance program so that no future commission will be called upon to do what we are doing."

The Port has posted a detailed Audit Response Action Plan to its website.