By Hub City Times staff

MARSHFIELD – Marshfield aldermen have signed off on the creation of a city “Ethics Board.” With Alderman Mike Feirer absent, the common council approved the ordinance on a 9-0 vote on Nov. 10, after four members of the public spoke in favor of the concept.

Alderman Ed Wagner originally presented the idea to his colleagues, and made a final pitch that night.

“There have been at least three times when there were very serious ethics violations going on, or what would be perceived to be that. When we tried to address those problems, they fell flat, because there was no real system in place for doing it. And, I don’t know how many of you have received phone calls alleging ethical problems from either some elected officials or some appointed officials; and basically, you had no way of dealing with them, you had no way of dealing with the complaint,” he said.

Wagner added that the board would be another “tool in the toolbox” for the council and citizens to ensure openness, transparency, and integrity.”

The Board of Ethics will be made up of four members – two citizens nominated and elected by members of the common council, plus one alternate member, along with a member of the bar nominated by the Wood County Bar Association.

City officials will be taking applications for the next handful of weeks from citizens who are interested in serving on the board. Those cover letters and resumes should be directed to: Marshfield City Clerk,
207 W. Sixth St., Marshfield.