Etta Kony reviews Sunshine Law and ethics code for Miami Dade task force

In a recent meeting of the Miami-Dade County Charter Review Task Force, key discussions centered around the importance of transparency and ethical governance in local government. Etta Kony, associate general counsel for the Miami-Dade Commission on Ethics and Public Trust, provided an overview of the Sunshine Law, public records, and the county's ethics code, emphasizing their relevance to the task force's work.

Kony highlighted the Sunshine Law's requirement that all meetings of public boards must be open to the public, ensuring that residents have access to government proceedings. She stressed the importance of proper notice and the need for minutes to be recorded and made available for public inspection. The law also prohibits private discussions among board members about agenda items, reinforcing the principle of transparency in decision-making.

The discussion also covered public records, which encompass a wide range of documents and communications, including those from personal devices. Kony reminded task force members that all public records must be accessible to the public, with specific exceptions for sensitive information. Violations of public records laws can lead to significant penalties, including fines and potential jail time.

Another critical aspect of the meeting was the ethics code, particularly regarding gifts and conflicts of interest. Kony explained that public officials must avoid accepting gifts that could be perceived as influencing their official duties. She provided examples of situations that could lead to ethical violations, such as soliciting gifts or using one's position for personal gain.

The task force also discussed the Citizens Bill of Rights, which guarantees residents access to government services and information, reinforcing the community's right to participate in local governance. This includes the right to be heard and to receive timely information about government actions.

As the task force continues its work, these discussions underscore the importance of ethical standards and transparency in fostering trust between Miami-Dade County officials and the community. The meeting served as a reminder of the responsibilities that come with public service and the need for ongoing education about ethical practices in local government.