Office of Ethics and Accountability seeks modest FY26 increase; reminds filers of April 30 disclosure deadline

The Office of Ethics and Accountability told the Government Operations and Fiscal Policy Committee that it seeks a modest increase to its FY26 operating budget and reported growing caseloads, outreach and training activities.

Legislative analyst Alex Hertel presented the OEA overview. The office requested a $1.2 million FY26 budget, a $59,300 (5.2%) increase from FY25, fully funded by the general fund. Compensation funding would support six full‑time positions; the office currently reports one vacancy (a compliance analyst) and Hertel said there were over 100 applicants for that posting. Operating items highlighted included automation charges, general administrative costs, telephone and training.

Executive Director Todd Turner said the board met regularly, adopted public hearing rules and issued a formal advisory opinion on financial disclosure requests. He described the office’s responsibilities spanning advice, compliance and enforcement for non‑police county employees and outside officials subject to county codes. Turner said the office completed a five‑year performance review in 2024, found no major findings and had implemented several recommendations.

Turner reminded attendees that April 30 is the county financial disclosure filing deadline for designated filers. He said OEA had circulated memoranda to agencies, boards and commissions to assist filers and offered support to council members and staff who need help meeting the deadline.

The committee did not take a final vote at the presentation; Turner asked for support for the proposed FY26 budget and encouraged members to contact OEA with questions about filings and training.