The Thurston County Board of Commissioners recently voted 4-0 to censure Commissioner Emily Clouse for inappropriate conduct, which included engaging in a secret relationship with her former aide and accepting gifts without repayment. While the board lifted her suspension that had begun in August, the censure resolution highlighted significant breaches of ethical governance and a loss of confidence in her leadership. The investigation report dismissed many of the aide's claims of sexual harassment but noted concerning behavior on Clouse's part. The board emphasized that such actions would warrant disciplinary measures for regular county employees, underscoring the gravity of the situation. Clouse abstained from the censure vote but participated in the vote to reinstate herself to her appointed roles.

The resolution also called for her to hold herself accountable and engage in professional development to prevent future conflicts of interest. This ongoing case is compounded by a lawsuit filed by her former aide, which keeps the matter in the public eye. As the community watches closely, both Clouse and the board face scrutiny regarding their actions and the implications for local governance.