January 16, 2019

Steve Walker
Director, Mayor’s Office of Talent and Appointments
1350 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, 6th Floor
Washington, DC 20004

Dear Director Walker:

I am writing regarding appointments to the Board of Ethics and Government Accountability

(“BEGA”). As you know, both PR23-0008, the “District of Columbia Board of Ethics and
Government Accountability Charles Nottingham Confirmation Resolution of 2018”, and PR23-
0009, the “District of Columbia Board of Ethics and Government Accountability Tameka Collier
Confirmation Resolution of 2018”, were referred to the Committee on the Judiciary and Public
Safety in Council Periods 22 and 23 but were deemed disapproved on January 9, 2019.

Prior to the expiration of his nomination, the Committee met with Mr. Nottingham and found
him to be extremely capable and experienced in many aspects of government service. I am
confident that he would serve the District well on a board or commission. However, I specifically
authored legislation, which the Council passed, to require the nominee for the BEGA seat for
which Mr. Nottingham was nominated to be an individual with expertise in open government
and transparency matters. Mr. Nottingham’s background does not meet this statutory
requirement. It is also my understanding that the District’s open government and transparency
advocates were not consulted prior to his nomination. I strongly encourage MOTA to engage
these stakeholders before nominating another candidate for this seat. While I deeply respect the
Executive’s role in nominating candidates for boards and commissions, I cannot advise and
consent on a nominee without the legally-required qualifications.

Similarly, prior to the current BEGA chair’s re-nomination, I had communicated to MOTA that I
encouraged the Executive to consider a different choice for that seat. Ms. Collier is a dedicated
public servant. She has served the Board skillfully and shown strong leadership throughout her
tenure. However, at this time, it would benefit the agency to have a Chair with more ethics and
open government-specific expertise. It is also my understanding that Ms. Collier is unable to
commit to a full term due to potential work conflicts.

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With the recent resignation of BEGA member Shomari Wade effective in early February, there
will only be two remaining members in addition to the Chair, out of a five-member board. It is of
the utmost importance that BEGA be fully constituted to enable the agency to execute its
mission. Quorum difficulties could present serious challenges to the Board’s ability to oversee
investigations and conduct its business.

I would welcome the opportunity to advise on the nomination of candidates for these vacancies
with the requisite qualifications, experience, and vision for the agency. Thank you for your
continued partnership in promoting open government and ensuring the highest ethical standards
for District government employees.

Sincerely,

Charles Allen, Ward 6 Councilmember

Chairperson, Committee on the Judiciary and Public Safety