8. What happens at a complaint hearing?

Our step-by-step procedure is posted on the Town website under Board of Ethics.

The public may attend but there is no opportunity for public comment.

The complainant presents his/her case to the Board of Ethics that the respondent violated the Town Charter or Code of Ethics Ordinance.

Then the respondent presents his/her case to the Board of Ethics that no violation occurred as alleged in the complaint.

Either side may bring witnesses and documentary evidence, and the respondent may bring a lawyer to participate in the hearing.

After both sides have presented their cases, the Board of Ethics deliberates in public session. Usually additional deliberation meetings are scheduled.

The Board of Ethics then votes in public session on whether the respondent did or did not violate the Charter or Code of Ethics and compiles findings of facts and a recommendation for disposition of the complaint. These are submitted to the Board of Selectmen who may accept or reject the recommendation. If the Board if Selectmen rejects our recommendation The Board of Ethics may hire counsel to pursue enforcement of the recommendation.