HAGÅTÑA (The Guam Daily Post) — The Guam Ethics Commission has adopted a resolution to exercise jurisdiction over a complaint related to fair treatment, and to investigate whether an employee who is or was employed at an agency violated those ethics standards.
The decision was made during a board meeting on Dec. 29, 2023. According to the resolution language read out during the meeting, the complaint was filed on Aug. 6, 2023.
Seven other complaints were dismissed due to the commission determining that it didn’t have jurisdiction over those cases.
“This highlights the commission’s commitment to upholding ethical standards and holding accountable those who fail to fulfill their duties to the public,” the commission stated in a press release issued Tuesday.
The release went over the commission’s final meeting in 2023, which included decisions on the ethics complaints and discussions on initiatives related to ethics in government.
“In addition to their adjudication efforts, the Guam Ethics Commission has also made strides in promoting ethical behavior through the Ethics in Government Program. At the (Dec. 29) meeting, the commission reported that an additional 2,770 employees have successfully completed the mandatory program. Despite the significant disruption caused by Typhoon Mawar to government operations, the level of completion achieved is truly exceptional. In fact, it surpasses last year’s reported number by an impressive 10%, showcasing the commission’s unwavering commitment to educating and promoting ethical practices among government employees,” the commission said in the release.
The release also noted that the Guam Ethics Commission received recognition in the Ethics Bluebook publication unveiled at the 45th annual conference of the Council on Government Ethics Laws.
“This publication serves as a valuable resource document shared across the North American region, emphasizing best practices for promoting compliance with ethical laws and holding government officials accountable to the public. This marks the first time that the Guam Ethics Commission has been featured in this esteemed publication,” the release stated.
The commission began accepting complaints in March 2022. It held its inaugural meeting in September 2019, but experienced setbacks due to funding. Regardless, that first meeting had been a long time coming, as Guam law reestablishing the commission took effect in 2004.
“We are pleased with the progress we have made in promoting ethical behavior and holding individuals accountable for their actions. Our contributions to the Ethics Bluebook publication are a testament to our dedication and hard work, and we will continue to strive for ethical excellence in the years ahead,” commission Executive Director Jesse Quenga said in the release.
Jesse Quenga
