Meetings
 
Agenda Item
 Docket No. 14-633
 
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RE:
Advisory opinion request regarding Monroe City Councilwoman Betty Blakes participating in a vote to repair the sewer line on a street in which she owns immovable property.
Facts:
Monroe City Councilwoman Blakes requested an advisory opinion regarding whether the Ethics Code prohibits her from participating in a vote to repair the sewer line on a street where she owns property. She stated that she owns a home on South 1st Street in Monroe. Councilwoman Blakes further stated that there are a least six homes in that area which are being severely affected by sewer line problems. She anticipates that the Council may address whether to repair the sewer line on South 1st. Street.

Councilwoman Blakes has contacted staff and wishes to withdraw her advisory opinion request as another adjacent land owner has petitioned to have the sewer lines to the subdivision repaired. She stated that recused herself from voting on this item in compliance with Section 1120 of the Code of governmental Ethics (Code). .

Comments:
The advisory opinion request has been withdrawn.
Law:
La. R.S. 42:1112A prohibits a public servant from participating in a transaction involving his governmental entity in which he has a substantial economic interest.


La. R.S. 42:1120 if any elected official, in the discharge of a duty or responsibility of his office or position, would be required to vote on a matter in violation of La. R.S. 42:1112, he shall recuse himself from voting. An elected official who recuses himself from voting pursuant to this section shall not be prohibited from participating in discussion and debate concerning the matter provided that he makes the disclosure of his conflict or potential conflict a part of the record of his agency prior to his participation in the discussion or debate prior to the vote that is the subject of discussion or debate.

Recommendations:
Allow Councilwoman Blakes to withdraw her advisory opinion request based upon her recusal.
Assigned Attorney: Suzanne Mooney
 
 
ATTACHMENTS:
Description:
2014-633: Advisory Opinion Request
2014-633- withdrawl 2014-633
2014-633- e-mail