LITTLE INTEREST IN OPEN SEAT

A position on the Cape Girardeau Ethics Commission has remained vacant since June.

City Attorney Eric Cunningham said no qualified applicants have sought the post.

The seven-member panel, which receives no compensation, was established in June 1997.

Terms for members of the initial commission were staggered, with members appointed to terms ranging from one to five years. The one year term had expired.

All subsequent appointments to the panel will be for five years. Members cannot be reappointed.

The term for the vacant position will expire in June 16, 2003.

Qualifications for the panel are high compared to those of other city advisory boards.

Cunningham said since members are charged with judging alleged ethical violations and conflicts of interests, they should be free of such issues themselves.

Commission members may not:

-- Be employees of the city, state or any political subdivision of the state.

-- Be a registered lobbyist.

-- Serve on any governmental board, committee or commission.

-- Be an officer of any political party or political organization.

-- Permit their names to be used, or make contributions in support of or in opposition to any candidate or proposal.

-- Participate in any election campaign, except as a registered voter.

Members are allowed membership in civic, community, social, labor and professional organizations and political parties.

They must be at least 21 years old and a city resident for a minimum of two consecutive years prior to application. Persons convicted of a felony or any crime of moral turpitude are excluded.

Members must also file a financial interest statement with the city.

Qualified persons interested in filling the vacancy may obtain an application at City Hall, 401 Independence St.