In a recent meeting of the Nevada Commission on Ethics, a notable public comment drew attention to longstanding concerns about conflicts of interest within local governance. Margaret Piskovich, a former president of the state bar and the first woman to hold that position, stepped forward to share her experiences and insights regarding ethical practices in the legal and political arenas.

Piskovich recounted her involvement in a significant complaint filed against a local attorney, Mr. Reese, back in the 1990s. She claimed that this complaint, which highlighted issues of conflict of interest, was not adequately addressed by the state bar, possibly due to the attorney's connections with influential figures within the organization. "I never received anything back from the state bar, which I thought at least as president I would," she expressed, reflecting her disappointment with the handling of the case.

Her comments underscored a persistent issue: the perception that conflicts of interest remain unresolved in local governance. Piskovich emphasized that despite the initial complaint, Mr. Reese continues to engage in practices that raise ethical questions. "To this day, I don't think he's figured out a conflict of interest," she stated, suggesting that the problem persists and may undermine public trust in local officials.

The meeting provided a platform for Piskovich to advocate for greater accountability and transparency in the ethical conduct of public officials. Her testimony resonated with the audience, highlighting the importance of vigilance in maintaining ethical standards within the community. As the commission continues its work, the implications of Piskovich's comments may prompt further discussions on how to effectively address and prevent conflicts of interest in Nevada's governance.