Ethics Board

The City of Madison appoints an Ethics Board to answer questions, render opinions, and hear complaints on matters concerning the Code. The Board has seven members: four citizen members, one representative of the Mayor, the Common Council President (or designated alderperson), and one representative of organized labor. All members of the Board are appointed by the Mayor with confirmation by the Common Council.

The Board elects its own chair and vice-chair and develops written rules of procedures which are approved by the Mayor and the Common Council. The City Attorney furnishes the Board with legal assistance and staff support.

How does the Board become involved in a matter?

Advisory Opinions

When an incumbent or candidate for City elected office is uncertain about the Code's application, they may ask the Ethics Board for an advisory opinion and be guided by that opinion when given. The individual will have an opportunity to present the facts at issue and state why the Code may or may not apply to a particular situation at hand. When the individual follows the Board's advice, it is considered evidence of their intent to comply with the Code. If the applicant desires the request for advice and the Board's opinion to remain confidential, the Board will meet in closed session, and only an anonymous summary of its opinion is made public.

Complaints

Any resident of the City may complain in writing to the Ethics Board about the activity or conduct of any person covered by the Code; however, that complaint must be filed within 12 months of the time the violation is alleged to have occurred. The person making the complaint must be present at the time the complaint is brought before the Ethics Board. The Board may issue subpoenas and administer oaths during the course of the proceeding. The procedure that the Board follows is based on rules and procedures that have been established by the Board and approved by the Common Council.

Copies of the Madison Ethics Code and The Procedures Manual may be obtained from the Office of the City Attorney in Madison, Wisconsin.