Two forms to be used by members of the public or officials who either aim to lodge an ethics complaint or request clarification about whether one may be justified are now available through the Town Clerk's Office.

On Monday, January 9, a "Complaint Petition," and "Advisory Opinion Request" form were endorsed by the Town Attorney and ratified by the Board of Ethics.

The Complaint Petition requests the name, address, phone number, and e-mail of the individual filing the document, along with identifying the person believed to have violated the ethics code, that person's position or office, and the specific section of the code the complainant believes was violated.

The form also asks where and when the alleged violation occurred, along with a brief statement containing other facts, circumstances, and documentation supporting the complaint.

The form must then be signed and notarized. All sworn complaints remain confidential until probable cause to hold a violation hearing is established, and all meetings of the Ethics Board and involved parties are not subject to public notice or access until the board votes to hold a hearing.

The Advisory Opinion Request form is intended for elected or appointed officials, and is not intended or regarded as a complaint. The requestor's name, address, phone number, and e-mail are requested, along with a description of concerns, the specific section of the code may be involved, and any other details of the potential violation.

The draft states that a return opinion should be expected within 25 business days of receipt. Probable cause investigations would commence within 20 business days of the chairperson receiving a complaint.