During the recent Ethics and Campaign Review Board meeting in Santa Fe, members discussed the importance of accessibility in filing complaints related to campaign ethics. Chair Bitterman and member Black highlighted a concern regarding incomplete documentation, noting that a portion of a flyer they received was cut off, which could hinder the clarity of complaints.
Chair Bitterman emphasized the need for flexibility in accepting complaints from the public, advocating for a system that does not require citizens to hire legal representation to navigate the process. This approach aims to empower community members to voice their concerns without the burden of legal complexities. He drew parallels to the magistrate court system, where a basic outline of facts suffices to initiate a case, suggesting that a similar standard could be beneficial for the Ethics and Campaign Review Board.
The discussion underscored the board's commitment to ensuring that the complaint process is user-friendly and accessible, fostering greater public engagement in ethical governance. As the board moves forward, these considerations will likely shape how they handle future complaints, aiming to create a more inclusive environment for civic participation.