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Waterford Ethics Commission seats alternates, urges RTM review of conflict-of-interest language
Summary
The Waterford Ethics Commission voted April 7 to seat two alternates, approved minutes and confirmed a $900 budget; commissioners also pressed the RTM subcommittee to clarify ordinance language on conflicts of interest, noting requested amendments have been pending since October 2024.
The Waterford Ethics Commission voted April 7, 2026, to seat alternates Paul Helvig and Sara Mallari and to approve its January 6 minutes, and Chair Betsy Ritter reported the Board of Selectmen and Board of Finance approved the commission’s $900 budget. "The Board of Selectmen and Board of Finance approved the Ethics Commission budget in the amount of $900," Ms. Ritter said.
The meeting opened at 7:02 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance. Ms. Patterson moved to seat Helvig and Mallari; John Scimone seconded. The motion carried 5-0-2 after Helvig and Mallari abstained. Later, Helvig moved to approve the January 6 minutes and Alan Messier seconded; that motion also carried 5-0-2 with Scimone and James Wolfley recorded as abstentions. James Wolfley moved to adjourn at 7:55 p.m.; John Scimone seconded and the adjournment motion passed unanimously.
During public comment, Mary Childs, a member of the RTM Legislation and Administration Standing Subcommittee, described the subcommittee’s membership and procedures and invited the public to attend meetings. "The public is welcome to attend their meetings," Childs said, and noted the subcommittee will discuss the Ethics Commission ordinances at its April meeting.
Commissioners spent much of the discussion pressing for clearer conflict-of-interest wording in the town ordinance. Sara Mallari said the commission’s request for revisions has been with the RTM since October 2024 and urged the subcommittee to address it promptly. Commissioners asked that the RTM consult the Town Attorney to clarify what constitutes a conflict and what voting limitations — if any — apply to RTM members during budget deliberations and other matters.
Alan Messier told the commission that determining violations should remain the Ethics Commission’s role while procedural questions about who may vote on RTM matters are within the RTM’s authority. Ms. Ritter said the commission’s ordinance remains in effect and that proposed changes would be handled on a case-by-case basis until the RTM completes its review.
Ms. Ritter also announced a Budget Hearing is scheduled for May 6 and asked that a commission member attend in her stead because she will be unable to attend. Ms. Ritter presented a draft compilation of internal procedures and asked members to review it and bring suggested additions to the July meeting.
No formal changes to the town’s ordinances were adopted at the meeting; commissioners focused on preparing recommendations and encouraging the RTM subcommittee to review the proposed language and consult the Town Attorney. The meeting minutes were submitted by Frances Ghersi, Recording Secretary.
