The Bozeman Board of Ethics devoted its March 30th meeting to a special training exercise: conducting a full mock ethics hearing from start to finish. Staff member Jen Guttari organized the practice session, which included orientation to the city's ethics code procedures, a fictional complaint scenario, and volunteer actors playing complainant, respondent, attorneys, and witnesses. Chair Sara Rushing and board members worked through the actual hearing format they would use if a real ethics complaint reached that stage, including ruling on evidence objections, swearing in witnesses, and managing witness examination.
The practice case involved a city employee who allegedly used city resources improperly. Board members faced real procedural decisions during the hearing, including disputes over whether certain evidence could be admitted. When respondent's counsel tried to present a photo not included in pre-hearing documents, the board had to determine admissibility in real time. Staff Liaison Greg Sullivan coached throughout, reminding members to follow procedural rules and focus on whether code violations occurred rather than offering advisory guidance. The mock hearing concluded with the board voting unanimously to dismiss the complaint.
Chair Rushing noted afterward that the exercise was invaluable preparation. Staff also provided detailed training on complaint procedures under the city code, including filing requirements, timeline standards, and the burden of proof—evidence must be clear and convincing, meaning without serious or substantial doubt. The board plans to debrief on specific procedural lessons at a future meeting.