Why doesn't Maria Veach Recuse herself from all Fire Related Matters?
What is a conflict of interest?
A conflict of interest is a situation in which a person or organization has two or more competing interests. When a conflict of interest occurs, the person or team can't perform their duties appropriately because it could mean betraying their interests to one of the parties within the situation. When such a situation arises, it's often a legal requirement for the primary party to remove themselves.
A conflict of interest occurs when an individual’s personal interests – family, friendships, financial, or social factors – could compromise his or her judgment, decisions, or actions in the workplace or vice versa.
Orono Council member Maria Veach may have several conflicts of interest due to her personal relationships, her preselection for City Council, her lack of governmental experience and the apparent pressure she is under with fellow council members.
Here are Seven Possible Conflicts of Interest:
1) Veach is married to a Long Lake Firefighter.
2) Veach is friends with Long Lake Firefighters and their wives and families.
3) Veach’s income partially comes from the Long Lake Fire Department.
4) Veach was preselected to be on the Orono City Council.
5) Veach is on the Fire Advisory Board representing the City of Orono.
6) Veach is on the Fire Negotiation Committee representing the City of Orono.
7) Veach was just volunteered to be a part of the mediation with Long Lake representing Orono.
Ask #mariaveach to reconsider her commitments to the Orono City Council. We’ve heard her say on a few occasions that she wanted less committees, not more. Recusing herself would be the ethical and transparent thing to do.
mveach@oronomn.gov
