Richland 1 board adopts SCSBA ethics code, changes contract reporting and invites internal auditor to executive sessions

The Richland 1 Board of Commissioners on Tuesday took three governance steps intended to increase transparency and oversight: adopting a statewide code of ethics for school board members, changing how the district reports contracts between $50,000 and $250,000 and inviting the internal auditor to attend executive sessions when appropriate.

Chairman Lomenak presented the South Carolina School Boards Association Code of Ethics and the board unanimously adopted the 14 ethical principles. "Is there a motion to adopt these guidelines set out by the South Carolina School Board Association?" the chair asked; Commissioner Devine moved adoption and Commissioner Clyburn seconded.

The board then debated whether to require board approval for contracts above $50,000. Commissioner Wesson proposed that contracts over $50,000 be returned to the board for a vote; after discussion the motion was amended to require that any contract over $50,000 be presented to the board as a separate information item so members could ask questions without an approval vote. The amended motion passed unanimously.

Finally, the board voted 7–0 to invite the district’s internal auditor to attend executive sessions on an as‑needed basis or when requested, so the auditor can hear sensitive discussions and follow up with audit work as appropriate. The chair said he will work with the superintendent and internal auditor to schedule quarterly updates and include audit items on the board calendar.

Board members described the moves as efforts to strengthen oversight and improve timely access to information for elected members.