The Ethics Commission shall have the following powers:
(A) Jurisdiction over the administration of this chapter and enforcement of the civil penalties it prescribes;
(B) Authority to initiate, receive, hear, and review complaints and hold hearings regarding possible violations of this chapter;
(C) Authority to administer oaths, issue subpoenas, compel the attendance of witnesses and the production of papers, books, accounts, documents, and testimony; and have the deposition of witnesses taken in the manner prescribed by Kentucky Rules of Civil Procedure;
(D) Authority to render advisory opinions to county elected officials, appointed officials, county government employees, and candidates for office as to whether a given set of facts and circumstances may constitute a violation of any provision of this chapter;
(E) Authority to prescribe and provide forms for reports, statements, notices, and other documents required by this chapter;
(F) Authority to determine whether required statements and reports have been filed appropriately according to the requirements of this chapter. The Ethics Commission shall promptly require filers to correct or explain any omission or deficiency; and, the
(G) Authority to retain private legal counsel at the expense of the county if the County Attorney has an actual or potential conflict.
(Ord. 120.0, passed 12-27-94).