BOSTON – Following the announcement of a guilty plea from a City Council colleague last week, Councilor Flynn filed a hearing order to discuss the creation of an Oversight Committee on compliance and accountability for the Boston City Council. While Boston City Councilors and staff are currently required to complete mandatory Conflict of Interest training annually by the Massachusetts State Ethics Commission, there have been a series of legal and ethical lapses over the last several years by members of the Council – which has unfortunately continued to undermine the credibility of the body.

In addition, Councilor Flynn has also advocated for transparency and public disclosure when it comes to releasing five years of state and federal tax returns, as well as the Statement of Financial Interest (SFI) submitted annually by City Councilors to the City Clerk’s office.

As elected officials, Boston City Councilors are placed in positions of public trust and should demonstrate the highest level of ethical standards and integrity. The last several years have highlighted the need for an oversight committee, composed of non-affiliated and relevant experts, that will review Council matters to restore public faith in city government. This oversight board may meet quarterly or bi-annually and include a number of functions, such as ensuring members are in compliance with all relevant rules and regulations, reviewing conflict of interest matters, identifying and investigating any alleged violations, and proposing reforms to prevent future offenses. The formation of the Board may potentially include the Boston City Council President, a retired Massachusetts or federal judge, a representative from the Boston Municipal Research Bureau, a college or university administrator, and Boston residents.

“Although the Boston City Council voted against ethics reform in January, it is critical that we discuss the creation of an oversight board – made up of non-affiliated, relevant, and outside experts – to help us restore credibility with the people of Boston,” said Councilor Flynn. “We must acknowledge that the public has lost faith in the Boston City Council, and act accordingly. The status quo is no longer acceptable.”

For more information, please contact Councilor Flynn’s office at 617-635-3203 or [email protected].