May a City officer serve as a member of an unpaid advisory board for a local educational institution?
Yes, although the City officer’s membership on the board would give rise to a conflict of interest for them under the State Ethics Act. As such, the City officer would be precluded from taking any official action that would affect the entity, including any fundraising in their official capacity, which would include any communications sent via the City’s email system or on City letterhead.
These advice tidbits are for reference only. They are not intended as legally protective guidance or binding interpretation of laws within the Board's jurisdiction. You can request individualized informal advice by contacting BOEGCStaff@phila.gov or clicking the Ask for Advice button on the Board's website.