2009-11-19 Board of Ethics Minutes

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Ms. Nicholson commented that since they would be looking at and responding to the Mayor's proposals, it may be a good time to look at any other changes to the Ethics Code they might want to recommend. They have the opportunity now to suggest changes to the Code on areas that have been problematic, and the Chair and Ms. Gentry agreed. The Chair suggested they focus on the Mayor's proposals first, and then move on to other areas of the Code. Ms. Schoen suggested that if any of them had any thoughts on changes to the Code, to send her or the secretary an email, and they could have it agendized for the next meeting. The agenda could be broadened to include not only the Mayor's proposals but their own proposals. For example, the Board at an earlier meeting had discussed shortening the time period in which petitions can be filed from six years to something less. Ms. Gentry said that some of their terms end soon, so the Mayor may need to start considering who else can serve on the Board. The Chair said that Section 2- 83(a)(3), which deals with treating people in a courteous, fair, and impartial manner, has been difficult to work with. Ms. Nicholson said it would be helpful to see how other counties worded the equivalent sections, and Ms. Schoen said that the County of Hawaii is the only county that has that language. The Chair said that section needs to be more specific. Motion and vote: Ms. Gentry moved to enter into Executive Session, Ms. Nicholson seconded the motion, and all members present voted aye. 10:40 a.m.: The Board announced a short recess prior to beginning Executive Session. 11:05 a.m.: The Board returned to Regular Session. 7. VOTING ON EXECUTIVE SESSION MATTERS a. Approval of the minutes of the October 14, 2009, Executive Session. Motion and vote: Ms. Nicholson moved to accept and file the minutes, Ms. Gentry seconded the motion, and all members present voted aye. b. Review of Confidential Financial Disclosure Forms filed pursuant to Section 2- 91.1(d), Hawaii County Code, by County board and commission members and designated County employees, where personal matters will be reviewed. Motion and vote: Ms. Gentry moved to accept and file the disclosure, Ms. Nicholson seconded the motion, and all members present voted aye. C. Draft letter from the Board to the Petitioner in Petition No. 2009 -12, wherein the Petitioner alleges that the Board violated Section 2 -83 (fair treatment) of