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| City Attorney Rene DeCoss |
"I find it intrusive," stated Mayor Trey Mendez.
"No money is being exchanged. These boards are simply advisory. We've lost some good people as this automatically becomes public information," stated the mayor.
Commissioner Ben Neece weighed in, suggesting perhaps "a more streamlined version of this" to DeCoss.
When questioned by the mayor about whether other cities in the valley were doing this, DeCoss wasn't sure, but gave San Antonio, Austin and Houston as examples.
"I will start drafting something," indicated DeCoss, as he was dismissed with a nod by Mendez.
The new ethics code, now signed by the City Commission, referred to as "Section 38" by DeCoss, is included in the packet of information along with the agenda for the 7/2/2019 City Commission meeting.
The new code, not exactly the Mueller Report, but likely a bit cerebral for the Fox & Friends crowd, contains this statement about conflict of interest at Section 38-1, part a, point 3: "No city official or employee have any financial interest, direct or indirect, in any business, transaction, or professional activity or incur any obligation of any nature that is in conflict with proper discharge of his duties in the public interest."
Financial disclosure for board members became a hot issue when several members of the Planning and Zoning Commission resigned recently over the requirement. At least two members have since rescinded their resignations.
Section 38-1, part a, point 3: "No city official or employee have any financial interest, direct or indirect, in any business, transaction, or professional activity or incur any obligation of any nature that is in conflict with proper discharge of his duties in the public interest." A broad reading of this would mean Jessica gives up the contract with Republic or resign
ReplyDeleteAs to the financial disclosures for boards cities all over the US have rejected it as intrusive. We want the best advising the CIty Commission and they will not apply if this draconian requirement stands
Bobby WC
Gowen wants to use a different streamlined form for her position as well. Does she know that she’s required by state law to submit the state form?
ReplyDeleteHahaha Gowen’s statement said she worked for UT Public Health and is still pissed over Lincoln Park.
ReplyDeleteAre you praising the lawyer for this? And criticizing appointments lack of transparency?
ReplyDeleteI find it amusing (if so) considering what this attorney has allowed/ignored at GBIC
Agree with BWC on this one....