Purpose
The purpose of this Conflict of Interest Policy is to protect the interest of the NorthEast-Millerton Library when it is contemplating entering into a transaction or arrangement that might benefit the private interest of one of its officers, directors or employees. This policy is intended to supplement but not replace any applicable federal, state or local laws governing conflicts of interest applicable to nonprofit and charitable corporations.
Scope
The scope of this policy includes Board members, committee members, and employees. Upon appointment, affected individuals are required to disclose specific circumstances that may represent an actual, perceived, or potential conflict of interest or commitment. The person should not only consider the actual fact of conflict, but the appearance to an unknowing third party who might have occasion to judge or interpret the situation.
Policy
Potential and/or perceived conflicts of interest shall be reported in writing as soon as they arise. Any such report shall be forwarded to the President of the Board of Trustees. The Board President and Director shall attempt to resolve any action or potential conflict, and shall respond in writing to the individual. In the absence of resolution, the conflict shall be referred to the Board of Trustees for action.
The individual in conflict shall absent him/herself from the room during the discussion or deliberations related to the issue, and shall refrain from participating in decision making in connection with the matter. The individual’s presence at the meeting shall not be counted in determining whether there exists a quorum.
A conflict of interest or commitment generally arises when an individual has the opportunity to influence decisions in ways that could lead to personal benefit or improper advantage resulting in the compromise or appearance of compromise of the individual’s judgment and ability to carry out his/her duties objectively.
This refers to any social, professional, personal or organizational affiliation, commitment, activity or undertaking that is so substantial as to interfere or appear to interfere with the individual’s responsibility to the NorthEast-Millerton Library.
Individuals affected by this policy shall maintain the highest standards of ethical behavior, integrity and public responsibility. No Board or committee member or employee shall use his/her position, or the knowledge gained there from, in such a manner that a conflict between the interest of the NorthEast-Millerton Library and the individual’s personal interests arises. Each individual affected by this policy has a duty to place the interest of the NorthEast-Millerton Library foremost and has a continuing responsibility to comply with the requirements of this policy.
No Library officer or employee shall use or permit the use of property owned by the Library for other than official purposes or for activities not otherwise officially approved by the Library Board.