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Ethics commission says it has identified independent counsel; council asks for legal options
Summary
The Ethics Review Commission told City Council it has selected Butler Snow as independent counsel and has had an initial meeting; council asked the commission's counsel to list powers and limits the commission could exercise under current law or with ordinance/charter changes.
Cheryl Stewart said the commission has selected Butler Snow to serve as its independent counsel and has held an initial "getting to know you" meeting with the firm.
"We identified Butler Snow, to represent the ethics review commission," Stewart said, noting the commission has not yet engaged the firm in substantive matters beyond the introductory conversation.
Council members asked that the commission's legal counsel review state statute and ordinance options to determine what the commission can do now and what would require amendments. One council member suggested the municipal attorney outline all available powers, limitations and enforcement paths so council can decide whether to amend the ordinance or pursue a charter change.
Council and commissioners agreed to schedule a follow-up meeting with counsel so the city can weigh options and, if needed, draft ordinance revisions for council consideration.
