City Council Reimagines Ethics Committee

Last year, the Baytown City Council agreed to sunset several committees or commissions due to the lack of need, infrequent meetings, or had an outdated mission. One of those that was dismissed was the ethics commission. This advisory group had not met in years and included members who no longer reside in Baytown.

Ethics and transparency remain top priorities for the City and leadership has been working to improve this process. We have also heard from residents who have expressed a strong desire to reestablish an ethics-focused commission.

In the coming weeks, City staff will develop a proposal for a reimagined ethics review committee, including its structure and membership. Under the City’s charter, city council will still have the final authority on ethics-related matters but will consider input from the ethics review committee. It’s important to remember that city council can direct legal counsel to investigate ethics complaints. The city manager will oversee ethics-related reports regarding City employees.

The City remains focused on ensuring accountability and public trust as this process moves forward.