Capitol Hill Community Council

Given there are numerous community issues involving the city I think we have to seriously review candidates for any conflict of interest.
Frankly, I would have to oppose Tim Durkan's candidacy given he is a paid Advisor for the Mayor.

If we are to gain public trust in the council and to ensure that officers and committees are "independent, impartial, and responsible to the community" we should have a strong Conflict of Interest policy which should be fiercely upheld.

Recommend IRS policy be incorporated into bylaws:
"The purpose of the conflict of interest policy is to protect this tax-exempt organization's (Organization) interest when it is contemplating entering into a transaction or arrangement that might benefit the private interest of an officer or director of the Organization or might result in a possible excess benefit transaction. This policy is intended to supplement but not replace any applicable state and federal laws governing conflict of interest applicable to nonprofit and charitable organizations."

EXCLUDING community members from the community council is against the council's objective (read the bylaws as to who is regarded as a member of the community council). We need a representation of all members of the community not just handpicked ones by you or I. I was singled out by members of this council for being in the Real Estate industry (because it was assumed that I would be pro-development). Especially as Board Members, your job is to "fight fair", to be unassuming of individuals and their backgrounds, and above all diplomatic. I see no diplomacy on shaking fingers before you even meet the man or hear what he has to say. I think that in itself is compromising the council's ethics and discourages people (like me) from continuing to be actively interested in this committee.

At the election meeting the topic of Conflict of Interest was brought up.
I would like to point out that the current bylaws state:
"5. Elected Officers - Elected Officers and appointed representatives may not use their authority with the intent or for the purpose of personal, political, or financial gain."

Suggested bylaw regarding Conflict of Interest forwarded to me by Chris Lehman:
Conflict of Interest:
A conflict of interest exists if a member of the Board of Directors receives financial compensation, accepts employment with or is under professional contract to the Council. It is the obligation of Board members to notify the Executive Committee in writing if a potential or perceived conflict of interest or duality of interest arises during their term of office. Reimbursement of a Board member’s expenses, honoraria for speaking or program grants are not considered a conflict of interest. A conflict of will also exist if any board member is directly employed by or related to any party having an interest that is adverse or potentially adverse to the purposes of the Council. Such Board member shall disclose to the Board in writing the existence of such conflict an may not participate in debate or in voting on matters affecting the parties to the conflict, unless such conflict is waived by a majority of the Board.