March 31, 2008

Opportunity for civic-minded residents on King County Board of Ethics

King County residents with an interest in law and ethics have an opportunity to apply for an open position on the King County Board of Ethics.  The position will serve a three year term on the five-member citizen advisory board.

The Board of Ethics provides guidance on whether an action or interest is allowable under the King County Code of Ethics and supports the county policy that the private conduct and financial dealings of public officials and employees shall present no actual or apparent conflict of interest between the public trust and private interests.

The Board oversees the administration of two transparency programs requiring financial disclosure by elected officials, designated employees and board and commission members, as well as disclosure by consultants doing business with King County.  The board is also responsible for interpreting the ethics code through advisory opinions and hearing appeals on orders of the ombudsman.

Primary criteria for board member candidates are balanced judgment, integrity and professional training or experience that would ensure the ability to deal with complex and sensitive ethics issues.  The successful candidate will be selected by the county executive and candidates may be interviewed.  Women, persons with disabilities, sexual minorities, and persons of color are encouraged to apply.

If selected, the new board member can expect to spend between two and four hours per month on board business.  Meetings are normally on the third Monday of each month. Members may be reappointed at the end of their term.

To be considered for this appointment, send a letter of interest and resume via e-mail to board.ethics@kingcounty.gov, or mail to Catherine Clemens, Executive Director, King County Board of Ethics, Chinook Building, 401 Fifth Avenue, Seattle, WA  98104-1818.

Letters and interests must be received by April 18, 2008. For more information, please contact the Board of Ethics Executive Director, Catherine Clemens, at (206) 296-1856 or via e-mail at board.ethics@kingcounty.gov, or visit the ethics Web site at www.kingcounty.gov/ethics.