City Council Tackles Conflicts of Interest, Approves Water System Financing, Reviews Attorney Fee Adjustments

Conflicts of Interest and Ex Parte Contacts

The City Council meeting began with a detailed discussion on conflicts of interest and ex parte contacts, particularly in relation to quasi-judicial land use hearings. Armand, a legal expert, provided guidance on how council members should handle potential conflicts. He emphasized the importance of transparency and the need to disclose any familiarity with properties under discussion, even if it’s as simple as driving past the location regularly. Council members were encouraged to use template statements to declare any potential biases or conflicts of interest. The discussion also covered the necessity of stating their ability to remain impartial despite any disclosed contacts.