Policy BCB:Member Conflict of Interest

The Massachusetts Conflict of Interest Law, MGL Ch. 268A, governs the conduct of School Committee members and other public officials and employees. This law ensures that the private financial interests and relationships of School Committee members and other public officials do not conflict with their official responsibilities.

In addition to acknowledging their obligations and responsibilities under this law, the School Committee specifically recognizes and endorses the following supplemental provisions. No School Committee member will:

  • accept other employment which will impair his/her independence of judgment in the exercise of his/her official duties.
  • accept employment or engage in any business or professional activity which will require him/her to disclose confidential information which he/she has gained by reason of his/her official position or authority.
  • improperly disclose confidential information acquired by him/her in the course of official duties, nor use such information to further personal interests.
  • use or attempt to use official position to secure unwarranted privileges or exemptions for self or others.
  • by his/her conduct give reasonable basis for the impression that any person can improperly influence him/her or unduly enjoy his/her favor in the performance of official duties, or that he/she is unduly     affected by the kinship, rank, position or influence of any party or person.
  • pursue a course of conduct which will raise suspicion among the public that he/she is likely to be engaged in acts that are in violation of trust.

If a School Committee member has a conflict of interest, as defined by Massachusetts law, about a topic being discussed by the School Committee, he/she must recuse himself/herself from any discussion or vote on that topic. During meetings in public session, he/she will move out of his/her seat at the table and refrain from reacting during the discussion. During meetings in executive session, he/she will not be in the room during the discussion or vote. 

A member’s financial or relationship conflicts of interest, or potential conflicts of interest must be filed on appropriate forms with the Town Clerk.

 

LEGAL REF:

MGL 268A

 Region Voted to Approve: 3/29/11
Amherst Voted to Approve: 4/26/11
Pelham Voted to Approve: 8/11/11