Two ethics complaints get a reviewer—not a verdict

Chattahoochee Hills City Council unanimously approved the appointment of David B. Davidson as special master to review two ethics complaints on Nov. 5, according to the Georgia city's draft meeting minutes.⁠[1]

That is a review assignment, not a finding of misconduct. The appointment entry does not identify who filed the complaints, whom they concern or what they allege, and it records no ruling on either complaint.⁠[1][2]

The city's ethics ordinance, adopted June 2, sets out the special master's screening powers: check whether complaints are sufficient and within the ordinance's jurisdiction, dismiss frivolous, repetitive or insufficient complaints, and determine whether probable cause exists. The ordinance requires the reviewer to act independently of the mayor, council and city staff—not under their direction or control.⁠[2]

A complaint is dismissed in writing if the reviewer finds no probable cause. If probable cause is found, the ordinance calls for a hearing before the mayor and council to be scheduled within 45 calendar days of that determination, subject to extensions by mutual consent or for good cause. Even probable cause is not a finding that a violation occurred; it means there is enough evidence to warrant a full hearing.⁠[2]

After a hearing, the ordinance requires written findings and public disclosure: the mayor and council must determine whether a violation occurred within 15 business days of the hearing's conclusion. Their findings must be available upon issuance, excluding legally protected information, and the clerk must post the decision on the city website within five business days of receiving it.⁠[2]