MA Ethics Commission

MA Ethics Commission Issues Order to Show Cause Against Clinton Fire Chief Michael Lutes for Conflict of Interest Violations

The Massachusetts State Ethics Commission's Enforcement Division issued an Order to Show Cause against Clinton Fire Chief Michael Lutes, alleging he violated the state conflict of interest law by improperly supervising his two sons who work as Clinton firefighters. The Order alleges Lutes mishandled complaints about one son, arranged exclusive training and overtime opportunities for that son, and repeatedly approved department payrolls including both sons' salaries. The Commission found reasonable cause to believe violations occurred and initiated an adjudicatory proceeding, with a public hearing scheduled within 90 days.

Townsend Water Superintendent David Vigeant Fined $10,000 for Conflict of Interest Law Violations

The Massachusetts State Ethics Commission issued a Decision and Order finding Townsend Water Department Superintendent David Vigeant twice violated conflict of interest law by providing water main project plans to local business owner Gary Shepherd before the project was put out to bid. Shepherd subsequently won the $4.7 million contract as the low bidder. Vigeant was ordered to pay $10,000 in civil penalties ($5,000 per violation) and has 30 days to file an appeal in Superior Court.

Former Holyoke Councilor Bartley Alleged Conflict of Interest Violations

The State Ethics Commission's Enforcement Division issued an Order to Show Cause against former Holyoke City Councilor David Bartley, alleging conflict of interest law violations. The Order alleges that Bartley represented private parties in four real estate matters involving the City of Holyoke between 2023 and 2025 while serving as a city councilor. The Order also alleges Bartley failed to complete the required State Ethics Commission online training program until 2025, violating the law's requirement that public employees complete training within 30 days of becoming a public employee and every two years thereafter.