Tallahassee Ethics Board Seeks New Member

News Summary

The Tallahassee Independent Ethics Board is looking for a new member following a resignation due to term limits. This volunteer position offers a unique opportunity for community residents to contribute to local governance while upholding ethical standards. Applicants must be registered voters residing within city limits and have a commitment to integrity and service. The board plays a vital role in maintaining public trust and ensuring transparency in local government operations. Interested individuals are encouraged to apply via the Treasurer Clerk’s Office.

Exciting Opportunity in Tallahassee: Ethics Board Seeks New Member!

Hey, Tallahassee residents! Are you looking for an opportunity to give back to your vibrant community? Well, now is your chance because the Tallahassee Independent Ethics Board is on the hunt for a new member! With one member stepping down due to term limits on January 1st, the board is actively seeking enthusiastic and community-minded individuals to fill this vacancy. This is a fantastic way to make a difference while helping maintain the public trust in our local government.

What’s the Deal with the Ethics Board?

If you haven’t heard of the Tallahassee Independent Ethics Board, let us bring you up to speed! Established back in 2014 through a citizen referendum, this board was created to uphold ethical standards within our local government. It operates independently of any city leadership and is here to ensure that our city representatives and officials are held to the highest standards of integrity.

Made up of seven members, the board is a mix of individuals who come from various professional backgrounds, including government, private enterprise, and academia. Five of these members are appointed by local institutions like Florida A&M University and the Florida State University, plus the State Attorney for the Second Judicial Circuit, the Public Defender’s Office, and the City Commission. The last two members? They’re appointed at-large by the board itself! Keep in mind, though, that this is a volunteer position, so there’s no pay involved—but the impact you can have on the community is worth its weight in gold!

Who Can Apply?

So, you want to apply? Great news! Potential candidates must be registered voters and must reside within the city limits of Tallahassee. The board is looking for individuals who not only have a commitment to serving the community but also possess the integrity needed to approach ethical concerns with seriousness and thoughtfulness. If you’re passionate about honesty in governance and want to be a part of something bigger than yourself, then this might just be the perfect opportunity for you!

What Makes This Position So Important?

The board meets every month (except in January and July) to dive into various topics such as ethics investigations, training approvals, advisory opinions, and ordinance recommendations. In 2024, they focused on nine advisory opinions that delved into ethical questions and potential conflicts of interest, all while interpreting the City Charter. They play a crucial role in ensuring that transparency and ethics remain at the forefront of our local government’s operations.

Despite some recent legislative challenges attempting to limit local ethics boards’ abilities to address complaints, the Tallahassee Independent Ethics Board keeps pushing forward. With plans to embody Abraham Lincoln’s vision of government “of the people, by the people, for the people” in 2025, they aim to engage even more with the community.

How to Get Involved

If you’re excited about the chance to be part of this unique board, you can submit your application via the Treasurer Clerk’s Office. Completing your application will set you on the path to possibly becoming a guardian of integrity in Tallahassee, and what could be more rewarding than that?

Keeping It Ethical

To keep track of all activities, there’s an Ethics Officer who leads investigations and training programs while also managing the board’s functions backed by an administrative assistant for essential operational tasks. Recently, the Florida Commission on Ethics dismissed a complaint against City Commissioner Jack Porter, reinforcing her ethical standing. This highlights how the board functions effectively in handling inquiries and maintaining a high standard of accountability.

Don’t miss your chance to help shape the ethical foundation of Tallahassee! Whether you’re a lifelong resident or new to the area, consider stepping up to make a positive impact. Join the movement towards a more ethical city by applying today!