Ethics adviser said Myers' legislation OK

February 09, 2004|by LAURA ERNDE

ANNAPOLIS - It may seem a bit self-serving of Del. LeRoy E. Myers Jr. to introduce legislation that will help small contractors like himself.

But according to the legislature's chief ethics adviser, it's perfectly fine as long as he discloses the potential conflict of interest.

It would only become a problem if Myers supported a bill that would benefit his company alone, said William Somerville.

Myers' bill potentially would affect all contractors by repealing a requirement that builders get an architect's seal before putting up storage and utility buildings smaller than 12,000 square feet.

Often the expensive seal is not necessary now that pre-engineered buildings have become so common, said Myers, R-Allegany/Washington.

There always will be potential conflicts of interest in the Maryland General Assembly because it's a part-time legislature and most of its members hold other jobs, Somerville said.

Lawmakers, in fact, are encouraged to work on legislation in their own area of expertise, he said.

Doyle eats 'crow' with Md. delegate

ANNAPOLIS - It wasn't enough for West Virginia Del. John Doyle to pay up after losing his bet to Del. John P. Donoghue over the University of Maryland-West Virginia University college football bowl game last month.

When he took Donoghue to Three Onions in Shepherdstown, W.Va., for the winner's dinner, Doyle had to prove that he really was remorseful.

"I opened up the menu and the first thing on there was crow," said Donoghue, D-Washington.

Doyle, D-Jefferson, ordered the "crow," which apparently was added to the menu just for the occasion.

"It was some sort of pasta. I couldn't identify it," Donoghue said.

Meanwhile, Donoghue ate rack of lamb and broccoli.

Munson stays mum during capital trip

ANNAPOLIS - When the Washington County Commissioners came to Annapolis last week, Delegation Chairman Del. Christopher B. Shank told Commissioner John Munson that he had been quiet during their meeting.

Shank, R-Washington, asked Munson, who has been known to grab headlines for speaking out, if he had anything to say to local lawmakers.

"Best keep my mouth shut and stay out of trouble," Munson said.

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