The Board of Ethics held a Meeting on Thursday, April 4, 2013 at 7:00 p.m. in Conference Room #1 in the Newtown Municipal Center, 3 Primrose Street, Newtown, Connecticut.
Present: Ron Wilcox, Suzanne Copp, Linda Dixon, Addie Sandler and Jackie Villa. Absent: Neal DeYoung and James Stringer.
Public Present: None.
Chairman Wilcox called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Introduction of New Member: Mr. Wilcox welcomed Jackie Villa as a new member of the Board. Ms. Villa has been a resident of Newtown for 9 years. She is a Registered Nurse and is a member of CERT (Citizens Emergency Response Team).
Review of General Procedures: Mr. Wilcox reviewed the complaint process enhancing confidentiality and the importance of maintaining the Board’s integrity. He noted that all proceedings are private and that all complaints should be submitted via a signed, written letter. The use of email to submit complaints is not acceptable. All correspondence regarding the complaint (to the complainant or the accused) should be in writing and sent via US mail as well. He asked all members to read the Code of Ethics thoroughly. He also noted that the Code of Ethics is backed by the CT General Statutes and that the Town Attorney is a vital resource for interpreting its content. Ms. Dixon asked about the range of recommendations if it is found that a violation has occurred. Mr. Wilcox said
that if the Board determines that there is a violation, the findings are forwarded to the First Selectman who determines the penalty, if any.
Review of the Code of Ethics: Mr. Wilcox reviewed the Code of Ethics thoroughly with the Board members and said that its content should be modified so that it is more clear and concise.
Mr. Wilcox asked to go into Executive Session. Ms. Sandler motioned to go into Executive Session at 7:58 p.m. Mr. Wilcox seconded the motion. The motion was carried unanimously.
Ms. Copp motioned to exit Executive Session at 8:05 p.m. Ms. Sandler seconded the motion. The motion was approved unanimously.
After further discussions, Ms. Sandler motioned to adjourn the meeting. Ms. Copp seconded the motion. The Board adjourned at 8:45 p.m.
Respectfully submitted by Tammy Hazen, Clerk
| 