§ 2-250.55. Ethics compliance officer.

(a)

City attorney's office. The city attorney shall serve as the ethics compliance officer for the city. The ethics compliance officer shall:

(1)

Receive and promptly transmit to the ethics review commission complaints and responses filed with the city secretary;

(2)

Investigate, marshal, and present to the ethics review commission the evidence bearing upon a complaint;

(3)

Act as legal counsel to the ethics review commission;

(4)

Issue advisory opinions to city officials and employees about the requirements imposed by the ethics laws; and

(5)

Be responsible for the training and education of city officials and employees with respect to their ethical responsibilities.

At least once a year, the ethics compliance officer shall cause to be distributed to each city official and employee a notice setting forth the duties of the ethics review commission and the procedures for filing complaints. The ethics compliance officer shall also ensure that such notices are posted in prominent places in city-owned facilities.

(b)

Outside independent counsel. An independent outside attorney, who does not otherwise represent the city, shall be appointed by the city council, after consultation with the city attorney, to serve as the ethics compliance officer for a particular case:

(1)

When a complaint is filed relating to an alleged violation of the ethics laws by:

(A)

The mayor or a member of the city council, or

(B)

A city employee who is a department head or of higher rank;

(2)

When the ethics review commission, after consultation with the city attorney, requests such an appointment; or

(3)

When requested by the city attorney.

In the event that the city council is unable to appoint independent counsel due to conflict, the ethics review commission shall appoint such independent counsel.

(c)

Exculpatory evidence. The ethics compliance officer shall disclose to the ethics panel and provide to the person charged with violating the ethics laws exculpatory evidence known to the ethics compliance officer.

(Ord. No. 06-22, § 1(part H, § 5), 9-5-2006)