Since it first broke nearly 14 months ago, the Paul Moore Ethics scandal has brought a steady stream of shame to the City of Milton.  Worse, it has distracted valuable government attention and resources away from much more important priorities.  The scandal is like a bad accident . . . you want to look away but cannot seem to turn your head.

The City is making progress on some important issues, but unfortunately the City’s accomplishments are being shrouded by the ethics scandal, but also by 1) council’s obsession with petty White Columns HOA issues and 2) a deeply flawed, unfair, and dishonest election design/implementation process that is making Milton the laughingstock of North Fulton County.  And at the center of all three fiascos are Council Members Paul Moore and Rick Mohrig, who have become Milton’s Frick and Frack of government dysfunction. It is difficult for me to see how Moore and Mohrig can survive challenges in the 2023 election considering their numerous and deep self-inflicted wounds.

I have promised to keep readers current about the ethics scandal.  This includes providing source materials so that you can form your own judgments.  (The Milton Coalition blog is the only place where you can find all these documents and a full compendium of the news stories about the ethics scandal.)

As reported in previous blog posts, Paul Moore lost his appeal in Superior Court.  Following are links to two news stories that provide the details.  The WSB Yahoo link provides the WSB video that was aired on local news.

Appen Media: Ethics Ruling Upheld in Superior Court

WSB Yahoo: Judge Rules Against Paul Moore

Since Mr. Moore’s defeat in Superior Court, a few events have transpired.

First, Moore has submitted an appeal of the Superior Court decision against him.  Mr. Palazzo, the ethics complainant, has submitted a response to Mr. Moore’s appeal.  I am providing copies of both Moore’s appeal and Pallazo’s response.

Second, Mr. Palazzo has filed a motion in Superior Court to recover his legal and other costs.  I am providing a copy of Palazzo’s motion.  The Superior Court ruled that Mr. Palazzo could sue to recover his costs.

My understanding is that within 30 days the appellate court will decide whether it will consider Moore’s appeal.  And it is likely that the Superior Court soon will decide whether Mr. Moore must reimburse Mr. Palazzo for some/all of Mr. Palazzo’s legal costs. 

I will keep readers updated on further developments in the ethics scandal. And don’t forget about the Milton Coalition Bits and Pieces page where I provide additional analysis and commentary for citizens that want to dig deeper into the issues: Bits & Pieces: For A Deeper Understanding

Advocating For Ethics in the City of Milton,

Tim