Inglewood Mayor James T. Butts is no stranger to controversy. There have been questions about his residency, possible conflicts of interest and improper campaign disclosures, the approval process for the new Clipper’s arena, and an apparent sweetheart deal given to a former campaign aide. Now, investigative reporters and transparency experts are eyeing a real estate transaction between Butts and a public affairs consultant who has done extensive work with the city.
In April, Butts purchased a three-bedroom house from Christine Robert of the Robert Group for $680,000. The mayor and Robert both say it was coincidence that Butts ended up as the buyer in the sale, but a cynic could be forgiven for their skepticism.
The Robert Group has been a critical player in the effort to bring the NFL stadium to Inglewood. In 2016, Robert’s firm also received a $300,000 contract from the city to prepare transportation plans for the new Clippers arena. Mayor Butts was among those who voted to award the contract to Robert, who has also contributed to his campaigns over the years.
Marc Little, who has sued Mayor Butts and is now challenging him for re-election, told the Los Angeles Times that the transaction raises “red flags.” Loyola law professor and government ethics expert Jessica Levinson agreed.
A lawyer representing Butts contacted the Times insisting there was nothing peculiar about the sale. He said Butts bought the house after an initial offer from another party fell through. He ended up paying $19,000 less than the original offer because subsequent inspections revealed unpermitted construction and other work that had to be done.
Robert also contacted the Times via email.
“The house was shown several times and no one else made serious offers,” she said. “I sold the house because we need the funds to continue to support my mom.”
The Times notes that one real estate agent represented both parties in the sale, a legal practice that also carries some legal and ethical risk. She too has a history with the city and is a longtime confidant of both Butts and Robert. She would not provide the amount of her commission and refused to comment further.