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Ethics board briefs Planning Board on disclosures, recusals and complaint process
Summary
An ethics board member reviewed the village code of ethics, annual disclosure rules, reporting process for complaints, recusal requirements and potential penalties (including fines up to $1,500), urging board members to seek advisory opinions when unsure.
Susan Darren Flyg, a member of the village ethics board, briefed the Planning Board on May 28 about disclosure obligations, conflict rules and the complaint and enforcement process under the village code.
Susan told members they will receive a copy of the code of ethics and are required to acknowledge receipt and understanding in writing. "You're required to read the code and acknowledge in writing that you have received, read, understand, and accept it," she said, and noted the village now permits online attestation to simplify compliance.
She described the complaint process: complainants must use the online form, cite the specific code section alleged to have been violated, and provide factual detail or supporting documents where possible. Some complaints are dismissed as invalid while others lead to interviews, hearings or transcribed proceedings in which respondents may be represented by counsel.
Susan outlined potential outcomes for validated violations, including advisory opinions and waivers, recommendations for disciplinary action, civil referral and, where applicable, referral for criminal prosecution. "There could be a fine of up to $1,500 per violation," she said. She also stressed that recusal must be recorded and filed in writing and that members should seek guidance from the ethics board or the chair if they are unsure whether a recusal is warranted.
The presentation also covered common issues such as gift limits (gifts, services, travel or entertainment valued at $75 or more from entities doing business with the village), restrictions on using village time or equipment for private business, post-employment limits on appearances before the village, confidentiality and whistleblower protections. Susan offered a handout and invited members to contact the ethics board with questions or requests for advisory opinions.
