Petition 2021-01 - Informal Advisory Opinion (06-09-21)

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BEFORE THE BOARD OF ETHICS COUNTY OF HAWAI' I RE: PETITION NO. 2021-01 INFORMAL ADVISORY OPINION Dissenting Opinion by Member Heintz, L. The County Council established a Code of Ethics and a Board of Ethics to interpret and implement that code. The purpose of this institution is to promote the highest standard of ethical conduct in the officer and employees of the County, so that the public may have trust and confidence in the integrity of government, see attached article 14.1 a and b, Cory Harden's petition 2021-01 clearly articulates the problem before us. Does a Council or board member or employee violate the Code of Ethics Section 2-83 (Fair Treatment) when they act as Council member Richards did by both serving as a reference for and subsequently voting for candidate Rodenhurst. The members of the County Council urged Mr. Richards to recuse himself, petitioner Harden and numerous citizens testified that by voting, Mr. Richards was not acting impartially but rather that by both serving as a reference and voting, it is reasonable to conclude that he demonstrated prejudgment biased an order invited a concern of a tainted vote. By denying the Harden petition, the Board of Ethics does not promote `The highest standards of Ethical Conduct'. It is being exhibited by County government. I therefore dissenLfrom the majority opinion of the board Lawrence Heintz Member, Vice Chair Board of Ethics