Columbia Development Authority Responds to Complaint
The Columbia Development Authority (CDA) Board of Directors convened on Monday, January 8, to address a complaint made by Port of Morrow Commissioner Kelly Doherty. Doherty expressed disappointment regarding a meeting that she felt lacked transparency and violated the public meeting laws of Oregon.
In a letter to CDA Chairman Kim Puzey on December 19, Doherty raised concerns about the closed-door meeting, stating, It saddens me that the public business of the CDA Board is not being held in the view of the public. It bothers me that our regional representation as economic developers would violate ethics laws.
Following a unanimous 5-0 vote, the CDA board approved a response to Doherty’s complaint during the meeting on January 8. The response letter, signed by CDA Executive Director Greg Smith, addressed the concerns raised by Doherty.
Smith’s letter acknowledged that he and the CDA’s attorney met with attorneys representing the intergovernmental agreement parties on November 29. However, Smith clarified that these attorneys did not represent any individuals associated with or appointed by their governing bodies to serve as CDA board members.
The purpose of the attorneys’ meeting, according to Smith’s letter, was to discuss the potential division of a CDA asset in a manner that would be acceptable to the intergovernmental agreement parties. Smith emphasized that any proposal regarding the division of assets would require approval from the CDA Board during a regularly scheduled meeting.
To support the CDA’s position, Smith cited definitions of terms related to public meetings from a law dictionary. He highlighted that the attorneys for the intergovernmental agreement parties lacked delegated authority to make decisions or recommendations to the CDA on policy or administration.
Smith stated in the response letter, For this reason, the CDA denies that the facts and circumstances set forth in the grievance accurately reflect the conduct of the CDA governing body.
The CDA’s response aims to address Commissioner Doherty’s concerns and clarify any misconceptions about the board’s adherence to public meeting laws and transparency.
As the CDA works towards resolving this complaint, it reaffirms its commitment to conducting its business in a manner that upholds ethical standards and serves the best interests of the community it represents.
The Columbia Development Authority plays a vital role in economic development projects within the region, and maintaining open and transparent processes is crucial to ensuring the public’s trust in its work. The CDA will continue to fulfill its responsibilities while considering public input and following all applicable laws and regulations.
This response from the CDA demonstrates its dedication to accountability and integrity as it strives to foster economic growth and opportunity in the Columbia region.
