In New York City Conflicts of Interest Board v. Amar , Jacques Amar was reprimanded by the Conflicts of Interest Board (COIB) for performing work for a private company -- which did business with the City -- and using City time and resources while doing so.
Amar was employed as a Staff Analyst for the Department of City Administration Services . As a sideline, he held a paid position with a management and investment company which had ongoing business with the City's Landmark Preservation Commission , the Department of City Planning , and the Department of Buildings .
Over the course of his "dual" employment, Amar signed a letter from his company to the City, contacted City agencies, and attended several meetings at Landmarks on the company's behalf. In addition, Amar used a City telephone, computer, and vehicle to conduct private business.
After reviewing his case, COIB fined Amar $4,500* for violating the City's rules and regulations. According to the New York City Charter, City employees "cannot have a position with a firm that the employee knows or should have known has City business dealings," and "may not, for compensation, represent private interests before any City agency."
Clearly, the COIB showed no love for Amar. (Or did it?)
To download the decision of the Conflicts of Interest Board , please click here: New York City Conflicts of Interest Board v. Amar
* Of course, the disposition is silent as to how $4,500 makes the City's taxpayers whole.