Oregon Government Ethics Committee

The Oregon Government Ethics Commission (OGEC) offers several key trainings that commissioners, as public officials, should attend to ensure compliance with state law and maintain public trust. Trainings are offered over the internet and sessions range from 60-90 minutes, varying by topic.

Government Ethics Law Webinars

A comprehensive overview of Oregon's Government Ethics Law. These trainings are essential for understanding the fundamental principles that govern public service.

• Key Topics Covered:
  • Prohibited Use of Office: Using or attempting to use one's official position or office for financial gain.
  • Conflicts of Interest: Identifying and navigating both actual conflicts (which prohibit participation in debate or voting) and potential conflicts (which require public announcement).
  • Gifts: Limitations on accepting gifts and the rules governing what constitutes a permissible gift.
  • Nepotism: Rules regarding the employment or supervision of relatives.

Public Meeting Law Webinar

This training covers the legal requirements for conducting public business openly.

It is a mandatory training requirement for members of governing bodies with annual expenditures over a certain threshold (currently $1 million).

• Key Topics Covered:
  • Public Meeting Requirements: Rules for public notice, accessibility, location, and record-keeping for meetings.
  • Executive Session Provisions: Detailed review of the specific, limited exceptions under which a governing body can meet in private (a "closed door" session).
  • Individual Member Responsibilities: Outlining the duties of each commissioner to ensure the public body complies with the law.
  • Grievance Process: Understanding the process for handling public complaints about alleged Public Meetings Law violations.

Statement of Economic Interest (SEI) Filing Training

This training guides designated officials on the mandatory annual disclosure of their and their household's sources of income, business interests, and real property. Public Officials are required to submit their SEI by April 15th of each calendar year. Filing opens on March 15th.

Special Districts Association of Oregon

SDAO Annual Conference

The SDAO Annual Conference usually takes place over three (3) days in February and rotates between being held in Seaside and Sunriver/Bend. It is the primary educational and networking event for special district officials. It features extensive training sessions focused on compliance with state laws (like Public Meetings and Public Records), risk management, finance, and effective board governance. Commissioners should attend to gain essential professional development, ensure statutory compliance, and receive timely updates on legislative and policy issues impacting their districts, enabling them to lead more effectively.

SDAO Board of Directors and Management Staff Training Series

Attorney Eileen Eakins presents a full-day training session designed specifically for special district board members and management staff. This essential training provides a comprehensive overview of the laws and regulations governing Oregon's special districts and the public officials who represent them. While critical for newly elected members and staff, experienced individuals will also benefit from this detailed review. Please note this session offers general public meetings information and does not qualify as an Oregon Government Ethics Commission (OGEC) certified training. Only public officials who serve on the governing body of a public entity with total annual expenditures of $1 million or more are required to complete an OGEC-approved training on Oregon’s Public Meetings Law.