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Board considers asking state ethics commission to advise on transparency concerns
Summary
Councilman Adam Boudreau proposed contacting the New York State Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government for guidance after residents raised disclosure and conflict-of-interest concerns; Supervisor Dattola provided context about a land sale and counsel's role and the board discussed outside vs internal review.
Councilman Adam Boudreau moved that the Town Board contact the New York State Commission on Ethics and Lobbying in Government to request guidance on transparency and disclosure concerns raised by residents.
Supervisor Rick Dattola responded with context, saying the land at the Tupper Lake Business Park was purchased from the Franklin County IDA and the Town was not involved in the sale, and that Attorney Kirk Gagnier had acted as his private attorney in a sewer-hookup matter. Dattola said choosing a private septic system avoided what he described as a significant "environmental and economic hardship" and saved the municipal sewer district money.
Board members discussed forming an internal committee including residents and the option of hiring outside counsel to ensure an objective review; some members said an internal committee might not satisfy taxpayers seeking transparency. No formal outside counsel decision was made; the board agreed the issue needs to be resolved with minimal taxpayer cost.
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