Etta Kony outlines Miami Dade ethics code during sunshine law briefing

The Miami-Dade County Charter Review Task Force convened on July 11, 2025, to discuss critical aspects of governance, focusing on the Sunshine Law, public records, and the county's ethics code. Etta Kony, associate general counsel for the Miami-Dade Commission on Ethics and Public Trust, provided an overview of these regulations, emphasizing their importance in maintaining transparency and accountability within local government.

Kony began by outlining the Sunshine Law, which mandates that meetings of public boards must be open to the public, with reasonable notice provided. She stressed that no formal actions can be binding unless taken during these public meetings, and highlighted the necessity of recording minutes for public inspection. The law also prohibits private discussions among board members regarding agenda items, underscoring the need for transparency in governmental operations.

The discussion then shifted to public records, defined broadly to include all forms of documentation. Kony clarified that even communications from private devices are subject to public records laws, and emphasized the responsibility of board members to facilitate access to these records. She noted that violations of public records laws could result in significant penalties, including fines and potential jail time.

Kony also addressed the Miami-Dade ethics code, particularly regarding gifts and the exploitation of official positions. She explained that gifts are defined as any transfer of economic value without adequate consideration, with specific exceptions. Public officials must be cautious about accepting gifts that could be perceived as influencing their official duties. Furthermore, the ethics code prohibits officials from using their positions to secure special privileges or benefits for themselves or others.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on voting conflicts and lobbying regulations, reinforcing the need for board members to disclose any potential conflicts of interest and to ensure that lobbyists are properly registered. Kony highlighted the Citizens Bill of Rights, which guarantees various rights to residents, including access to public records and the right to be heard in governmental processes.

Overall, the meeting served as a vital reminder of the ethical standards and legal obligations that govern Miami-Dade County officials, aiming to foster a culture of integrity and public trust in local governance. The task force is expected to continue its work with these principles in mind as it reviews the county's charter.