County counsel briefs Planning Commission on conflicts of interest, recusal rules and post-decision contribution limits

County legal staff reviewed ethics, conflict-of-interest rules, and campaign-contribution limits that apply to Planning Commission members, emphasizing disclosure, recusal and how to cure certain violations.

Deputy County Counsel Trevor told commissioners that when they act in their quasi‑judicial capacity — for example, deciding use permits — they must be neutral and disclose any financial conflicts. Legal guidance summarized the types of financial interests that can require disqualification: foreseeable material financial effects on a commissioner or family member; ownership of property or an entity with investment of $2,000 or more; business roles; income over specified thresholds; and gifts or promised gifts over specified dollar amounts provided within 12 months of a decision.

Hannah from County Counsel elaborated that state law and county code require disclosure on the…