Ethics commission working group seeks faster complaints process and a framework for commission-initiated reviews

The Austin Ethics Review Commission on March 25 heard an update from a working group that wants to streamline how the commission handles complaints and to create a formal pathway for the commission to initiate complaints itself.

"We determined that the two major priorities would be developing a framework for commission-initiated complaints," Commissioner Lowe told the commission, describing a March 6 brainstorming session. Lowe said the group also wants to "find ways to expedite the entire complaints process," which could include asking the City Council to act or amending the commission’s bylaws or operating rules.

Commissioner Figueroa thanked Lowe for leading the effort and said the proposal responds to concerns about "inconsistent enforcement" and what she described as arbitrary outcomes in past complaint handling. "We're just trying to be creative and think of ways to address this issue in a way that's fair and consistent," Figueroa said.

A soon-to-be commissioner, introduced during the meeting as Commissioner Solis, told the group the working group should study an "off-ramp" for minor procedural errors so first-time or clerical mistakes do not require a full preliminary hearing. "I think there should be some kind of procedural ... off-ramp," Solis said, adding the intent is administrative efficiency and improved transparency.

Chair Ross Pumphrey clarified that while the commission can involve citizens in working-group deliberations, formal appointment of a commissioner who has not yet completed qualification can be deferred until the next meeting.

Caroline Webster of the City Law Department asked the commission to complete the working-group update before addressing changes in membership. Outside counsel Alan Bojorquez identified himself as the commission’s counsel and took part in conversations about logistics and legal questions.

Members said the working group will return with recommendations and that adding additional commissioners to the group would be considered at a future meeting. The commission did not vote on any changes at the March 25 meeting.