The state's political watchdog has slapped a $2,500 fine on former Sacramento city building official Dan Waters, who worked on a patio permit at a Natomas sushi restaurant where he co-owned a cigar bar.
Waters "violated the Political Reform Act by attempting to use his official position to influence a governmental decision in which he had a financial interest," according to a Fair Political Practices Commission decision.
According to FPPC documents, Waters - the son of former Councilman Robbie Waters - formed LEWA, Inc., with Ken Le, the owner of Oshima. LEWA is a cigar bar.
Waters later worked on permit requests by Le for Oshima's patio and to allow live music on the deck. The patio was to be used by Waters and Le "for their business," the documents state.
Waters, who no longer works for the city, was also at the center of a separate scandal in the Community Development Department involving the improper issuance of home permits in Natomas, a violation of a federal building ban in place in the area while nearby levees are upgraded.
He has written a check of $2,500 to the FPPC, which will be deposited into the state's general fund should the commission finalize its decision next week.
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