State Inspector General Alleges Wrongdoing By Commission Staffer

The New York State Inspector General (IG) recently wrote to the Lake George Park Commission regarding the Commission’s Executive Director, who solicited a gift from an organization that falls under the Commission’s – which is very likely a violation of the Public Officers Law.

According to the IG, the Commission’s Executive Director (who also serves as the Commission’s ethics officer) helped organize a party for Commission member who was stepping down. As part of that effort, the Executive Director and several Commissioners met with the owner of a company that is regulated by the Commission. The company agreed to donate one of its boats, an open bar, food and a disk jockey for the party.

The Inspector General wrote:

“As the Executive director and ethics office who has received specialized training, Wick never informed the Commission of the potential implication of Public Officers Law sections 73 and 74. Additionally, Wick never reminded the Commission of the guidelines and prohibitions of its own policy and procedures manual….Wick not only coordinated and facilitated this retirement party….he effectively conveyed to the Commission that donations from the Company owner were appropriate and permissible.”

Presumably, the IG will also share this letter with the Joint Commission on Public Ethics (JCOPE), which will undertake its own investigation of the Commission and its staffer and take appropriate action.

This situation is a good reminder of the need to understand and adhere to the state’s restrictions on the solicitation or acceptance of gifts from people of entities that a state entity regulates or does business with.