Title
A resolution specifying a time period for the submission of written objections to an Initial Decision for City Council consideration concerning a hearing regarding ethics complaints under the City Code of Ethics
Presenter:
Council President Merv Bennett
Body
Summary:
The resolution specifies a deadline for submission of written objections to the hearing officers Initial Decision in ethics matter 2015-01, pursuant to requirements of Council Resolution 58-13, as well as other matters relating to the disposition of the case.
Previous Council Action:
On June 9, 2015, City Council voted 8-0 to issue three ethics charges as recommended by the Independent Ethics Commission (IEC) in a matter involving Councilmember Helen Collins. On June 23, 2015, City Council voted to appoint a hearing officer to conduct the evidentiary proceedings in the matter.
Background:
The City’s Code of Ethics, Resolution 58-13, and Council’s Rules of Procedure guide the process for resolving ethics matters before City Council. Because none of these documents specify the time period for submitting written objections to the hearing officer’s Initial Decision, City Council wishes to formally adopt a timeline for disposition of the case, as well as laying out its intent in other matters relating to the case, including setting a date for a Special Council meeting to take final action.
Pursuant to guidance from Council’s retained attorney in this matter, the Special Meeting will provide Councilmembers and opportunity to discuss, in open session, the Initial Decision and the written objections, if any are submitted, and to make its final decision on the matter, which may be to affirm, reject, or modify the findings in the Initial Decision. Because there has been a public hearing on the matter before a hearing officer, there will be no public testimony during the Special Meeting.
Financial Implications:
N/A
Board/Commission Recommendation:
The City’s Independent Ethics Commission issued its written recommendation in this case on May 29, 2015.
Stakeholder Process:
N/A
Alternatives:
N/A
Recommended Action
Proposed Motion:
Adopt the resolution as presented.
Summary of Ordinance Language
N/A