Appearance of conflict an issue
Mayor Al Krieger’s personal attorney and former judge Thomas Thode have come to the mayor’s defense concerning the “conflict of interest” controversy. His personal attorney, Timothy La Sota, has gone so far as to call this a witch hunt and claims the mayor has broken no state or local laws.
While the mayor may not have broken any laws with regard to conflict of interest, the true issue is not whether any wrongdoing has occurred, but rather whether there is an appearance that conflicts of interest exist. I am sure that all of the attorneys weighing in on this matter would agree and advise their clients that it is best to avoid any and all appearances of conflict of interest by disclosing those business dealings and relationships that may give the appearance of impropriety.
Many have come forward and claimed Krieger is an honest man and above reproach. How fortunate Krieger is to have so many loyal friends. However, the majority of citizens do not have the benefit of this personal experience with the mayor. His friends would have done him a better service by advising him to vote for the investigation of his activities or at least not participate in that portion of the council meeting. If the mayor has nothing to hide, he would do well to welcome transparency.
I myself am puzzled at Thode’s and La Sota’s challenge to the professionalism and role of the city attorney. Steve Moore seems to be the one person that is clear on what his role is. Moore is not there to advise Krieger on his personal conduct.
In addition, how would the city attorney come to have access and knowledge of all the potential business dealings, let alone the personal and familial relationships of the mayor and/or city council? This is exactly the type of information city government and Moore would need to possess in order to “whisper in the ear” and give advice whenever any member of the council was about to engage in a conflict of interest.
Perhaps we need to be asking, “Why hasn’t the mayor demonstrated any practical knowledge or awareness that his actions give the appearance of a conflict of interest and impropriety“?
Public service requires the utmost integrity from those who represent us. The acknowledgement of a conflict of interest does not mean any corruption has occurred. We must demand that individuals in public service voluntarily disclose potential conflicts and maintain the transparency of their actions regardless of who is watching over them.
Vicki Scott
Yuma
