The ethics trial against Louisville Metro Councilwoman Barbara Shanklin begins Tuesday morning, but it could take two months before the ethics commission makes its ruling.
Shanklin has been accused of violating five provisions in the city’s ethics ordinance, including writing over $14,000 in checks to relatives.In August, Louisville's Ethics Commission voted unanimously to hold the hearing that was set for Oct. 25, but Shanklin's representation said they needed more time, according to Deborah Kent, general counsel for the Ethics Commission.The hearing is expected to last three days, but could be pushed into a fourth, she said.Once the trial ends, several procedural issues will occur before the commission makes its final decision. This includes completing a final transcript of the hearing, pleads by both sides, and recommendations by hearing officer Ann Sheadel to the commission.“So it will probably be six weeks to two months before a final decision comes to the commission," said Kent.If the commission finds Shanklin was in violation of the city’s ethics code and recommends removal, the council will have to hold a trial.Former Councilwoman Judy Green was ousted last year under a similar process.A recent Courier-Journal report by reporter Dan Klepal shows taxpayers will likely spent over $50,000 for Shanklin’s representation.
