Staff Writer
Rules go to the full Commission July 7
The rules by which the City’s Ethics Commission will conduct business took another step toward completion Wednesday as its Bylaws Subcommittee met to discuss press policy and other issues.
The subcommittee discussed the “Internal Operating Procedures” of the Ethics Commission.
The procedures provide a framework for meetings of the Commission, attendance standards, how officers are elected, conduct of officers and press policy.
Most issues had been reviewed and settled, but press policy was being reviewed by the Office of General Counsel.
The current press policy states: “Individual members of the Ethics Commission do not offer public comments to the press or individuals seeking opinions from the Commission. The Commission functions as a body and due process is followed for an opinion to be rendered.
“According to the Internal Operating Rules of the Ethics Commission, any matter upon which the Commission shall be asked to render an opinion shall be submitted in writing to the Commission prior to the date of the meeting.”
Gene Filbert, chair of the subcommittee, said, “Our intent here is to speak with one voice, to make the message as clear and concise as possible. We are not trying to stifle anyone from expressing themselves.”
In addition to Filbert, the subcommittee includes Helen Ludwig, Kirby Oberdorfer and Mary Swart. They were joined by City Ethics Officer Carla Miller, Assistant General Council Jon Phillips and General Counsel Cindy Laquidara.
“What we are trying to do here is worry about any conflicts, any political activity, any self-serving behavior that would be getting into the area of a code of conduct,” said Miller. “I have been looking into a lot of other codes of conduct, and a lot of organizations have addressed this nationally.”
The policy concerned the subcommittee because, under the current policy, an opinion could not be given until it was reviewed and approved by the entire Commission rather than having a spokesperson respond when asked.
The subcommittee members were concerned that this policy would conflict with the Commission efforts toward transparency.
The proposed press policy states: “The Commission functions as a body and due process is followed to ensure fair decisions and opinions are rendered.
“The Chair, by these procedures, is the sole person authorized to make statements on behalf of the Commission, as appropriate. Members shall not represent to anyone that they speak on behalf of the Ethics Commission. Individuals are strongly discouraged from making any statement to the press or on matters pending before the Commission.”
Once completed, all members of the Commission will be required to sign and follow the procedures during their term on the Commission.
The revised “Internal Operating Procedures” will be presented to the entire Ethics Commission at its next meeting 5 p.m. July 7 at City Hall.
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