MEASURE NO. 24-78

Ballot Title:

Summary: Provides that elected or appointed city officials and participants in decision-making process must disclose at public hearings relationships, gifts and contributions when a decision is likely to result in a financial benefit to a person or entity. When such disclosures are required, and matters disclosed create appearance of bias or impropriety, officials cannot participate as decision-makers in decisions made at public hearings, unless absolutely necessary to render effective decision, or all persons participating in proceeding waive objection to participation. Disclosures include past or present business or family relationships with, or direct or indirect campaign contributions or gifts totaling at least $501 during preceding two years for Mayor and four years for other officials from, persons or entities or their
representatives participating in decision-making process. Decision-makers shall participate or abstain as necessary to achieve purpose of public confidence in high ethical standards when a reasonable person would conclude that campaign contributions were made or disclosed, or waivers granted or withheld to manipulate composition of voting members of decision-making body. Violation would prejudice parties’ substantial rights.