Public hearing on proposed Code of Ethics and Ethics Commission (draft 10/29/2025)
At a glance
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On November 10, 2025 the Ledyard Town Council held a hybrid public hearing at Town Hall Council Chambers to receive comment on a draft ordinance titled “An Ordinance Establishing a Town of Ledyard Code of Ethics And Ethics Commission” (draft dated on or about October 29, 2025). Councilor Jessica Buhle presented the draft (prepared using the Town of Glastonbury ordinance as a starting point). The ordinance text includes definitions (family, gift, consultant, etc.), disclosure and disqualification rules, conflict-of-interest provisions, incorporation of the Code into consultant contracts, an Ethics Commission structure and appointment process, advisory-opinion and complaint procedures, confidentiality rules, penalties, and training/acknowledgment requirements. Dozens of residents spoke for and against provisions: common concerns were the overly broad/unclear “Family” definition, inclusion of consultants, lack of a standalone short “Code of Ethics” statement, potential burdens on volunteers (gifts rules), and possible conflicts with state statutory boards (e.g., Inland Wetlands). Several councilors said further review is needed; no adoption vote was recorded. The public hearing was adjourned at 5:42 p.m.
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Key decisions
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- Public hearing held on November 10, 2025 to receive testimony on the draft Ethics Ordinance (10/29/2025).
- Council accepted presentation of the draft ordinance (based on a Glastonbury model) outlining definitions, conflict-of-interest rules, complaint/advisory procedures, an Ethics Commission, penalties, and required acknowledgments/training.
- Extensive public comment was recorded (supporters and critics); common issues raised included the Family definition, inclusion of consultants, volunteer impacts of gift rules, document proofreading/clarity, and potential conflicts with state statutes.
- No adoption or final vote recorded; councilors indicated the ordinance will be revised further and additional review/hearings are expected (several councilors supported further stakeholder review and the possible formation of an ad hoc committee).
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Meeting information
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Town Council
Public Hearing
Agenda
- In-Person: Council Chambers Town Hall Annex Remote: Information noted below:
- Join Zoom Meeting from your Computer, Smart Phone or Tablet: https://us06web.zoom.us/launch/edl?muid=0ec0d0ed-c495-4aa5-adaa-ac97f88014e2 or by audio only dial: +1 646 558 8656 Meeting ID: 872 3852 2319; Passcode: 298911
- CALL TO ORDER
- PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
- PROCEDURE OF THE PUBLIC HEARING
- CALL OF THE PUBLIC HEARING
- PUBLIC H EARING LEGAL NOTICE.
- PRESENTATIONS
- MOTION to adopt a proposed “Ordinance Establishing a Town of Ledyard Code of Ethics and Ethics Commission”.
- RESIDENT & PROPERTY OWNERS (COMMENTS LIMITED TO THREE (3) MINUTES
- ADJOURNMENT
- DISCLAIMER:
- Although we try to be timely and accurate these are not official records of the Town. The Town Council's Official Agenda and final Minutes will be on file in the Town Clerk's Office.
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