Briefing
Public hearing on proposed Code of Ethics and Ethics Commission (draft 10/29/2025)
On November 10, 2025 the Ledyard Town Council held a hybrid public hearing at Town Hall Council Chambers to receive comment on a draft ordinance titled “An Ordinance Establishing a Town of Ledyard Code of Ethics And Ethics Commission” (draft dated on or about October 29, 2025). Councilor Jessica Buhle presented the draft (prepared using the Town of Glastonbury ordinance as a starting point). The ordinance text includes definitions (family, gift, consultant, etc.), disclosure and disqualification rules, conflict-of-interest provisions, incorporation of the Code into consultant contracts, an Ethics Commission structure and appointment process, advisory-opinion and complaint procedures, confidentiality rules, penalties, and training/acknowledgment requirements. Dozens of residents spoke for and against provisions: common concerns were the overly broad/unclear “Family” definition, inclusion of consultants, lack of a standalone short “Code of Ethics” statement, potential burdens on volunteers (gifts rules), and possible conflicts with state statutory boards (e.g., Inland Wetlands). Several councilors said further review is needed; no adoption vote was recorded. The public hearing was adjourned at 5:42 p.m.
4 min readMunicipal coverage