Ethical integrity is the foundation of representative government. The ability of our elected officials to lead depends upon confidence in their commitment to direct Fountain Hills toward what is best for all, rather than what might benefit any particular official or his business associates.

Allegations have appeared charging that a sitting councilman, currently running for mayor, used his elective position for the benefit of local developers with whom he has close business relationships.

Specifically, since 2012, the councilman/candidate has received substantial “campaign contributions” from Shea Connelly Construction, developer of Park Place on Avenue of the Fountains, and from numerous individuals closely associated with that construction company. Furthermore, the councilman/candidate’s employer, Commercial Properties, Inc., represents Shea Connelly Construction’s major Fountain Hills development, Park Place.

Allegations, especially those made during an election, can be questioned. But facts are stubborn. They won’t go away. If the facts sustain these allegations, it is clear that in his role as councilman, the councilman/candidate had an obligation to inform us that he had a direct conflict of interest in any matters that came before our council that were related to Park Place, and to recuse himself from any votes or discussions on those matters. He did not do that.

Instead, it is alleged that he consistently provided official votes in favor of benefits to Shea Connelly Construction’s enormous development project.

As things stand, the atmosphere surrounding the councilman/candidate’s campaign reeks of suspicion. If the facts sustain the allegations, the councilman/candidate should do the right thing and withdraw from the mayoral race. If he feels that the allegations are not sustainable, he should provide the public with the information needed to clear the air and put the matter to rest.