Categories: CommunityEvents/What's HappeningNews

Tallahassee Ethics Board Seeks New Member

Discussion at the Tallahassee Ethics Board meeting

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News Summary

The Independent Ethics Board in Tallahassee is on the lookout for a new member following a term limit. Residents are encouraged to apply, showcasing their integrity and desire to serve the community. This board, operating independently from city leadership, plays a vital role in reviewing ethical complaints and promoting governance. With a focus on community engagement, the board aims to enhance public trust while navigating legislative challenges. Interested applicants must be registered voters residing within city limits.

Tallahassee’s Independent Ethics Board on the Hunt for New Member

In the heart of Tallahassee, the Independent Ethics Board is looking for new talent! With one of its members reaching a term limit, this vibrant board is inviting applications from residents who are ready to dive into the world of ethics and governance. The board operates independently of city leadership while still being an official agency of the city, making it a crucial piece of the local government puzzle.

Who Can Apply?

Are you a Tallahassee resident with a strong sense of integrity? If so, you might just be the perfect fit! The board is on the lookout for applicants who have a genuine desire to serve their community. Members come from all sorts of professional backgrounds, including government, private business, and academia. The current lineup boasts a chair who is a seasoned physician assistant and a vice chair with a background as a former police chief.

Structure & Responsibilities

The board itself consists of seven members, with five appointed by local institutions such as Florida A&M University and Florida State University, alongside the State Attorney for the Second Judicial Circuit, the Public Defender’s Office, and the City Commission. The remaining two members are brought on board through an at-large appointment process initiated by the board itself. It’s interesting to note that all members serve their community without taking any financial compensation.

What’s Involved?

To join this esteemed group, applicants need to be registered voters residing within the city limits. Once chosen, members meet monthly, except for January and July, to ensure all aspects of city ethics are well-managed. This board is responsible for investigating ethical complaints, enforcing necessary actions, approving training courses, and providing advisory opinions on various ethical dilemmas. In fact, the board’s influence extends to making recommendations for changes in city ordinances to better serve the community.

A Response to Changing Legislative Landscapes

Despite recent changes in legislation aiming to limit the powers of local ethics boards regarding ethics complaints, the Tallahassee Ethics Board remains steadfast in its mission. With challenges on the horizon, the board is not backing down. In 2025, the board is gearing up to ramp up community engagement, inspired by Abraham Lincoln’s vision of government—“of the people, by the people, for the people.”

Building Bridges with the Community

There is a sincere call for volunteers, as community engagement is more essential than ever. By involving citizens in the decision-making process, the board aims to enhance public trust and ensure transparency in how the city’s resources are managed.

The Board’s Activities and Impact

The board’s work doesn’t just stop at overseeing ethics; their 2024 Annual Report highlights nine important advisory opinions covering various issues, from the acceptance of gifts to the misuse of public resources. The establishment of this board in 2014 came about through a citizen referendum, reflecting the community’s desire for better governance. It’s also funded by the City Commission, allowing it to operate effectively.

Ethical Oversight of City Officials

The board has been active in reviewing complaints against city officials, including a notable case involving City Commissioner Jack Porter, which was ultimately dismissed after the Florida Commission on Ethics found no grounds for the allegations. Interestingly, Governor Ron DeSantis also faced scrutiny over a golf simulator gifted to the Governor’s Mansion, but similar reviews concluded that no further action needed to be taken.

In Conclusion

The ongoing efforts of the Tallahassee Independent Ethics Board emphasize the importance of ethical governance. They strive for collaboration with citizens to maintain public trust in local government. So, if you think you have what it takes to make a positive impact, don’t hesitate to apply and be a part of shaping the ethical landscape of your city!