Chief of Staff’s Financial Disclosure Controversy Unfolds
Mayor Adams’ chief of staff, Camille Joseph-Varlack, is embroiled in a controversy surrounding her latest financial disclosure. The issue stems from her failure to include her continued position on the board of an energy company that conducts business with the city.
Regulatory Scrutiny and Oversight
In late 2022, regulators raised concerns after Bloomberg News revealed Joseph-Varlack’s board position at Avangrid, an energy distribution company in Connecticut. Despite serving as Adams’ chief of staff, she maintained her role on the board, prompting alarm from regulatory bodies.
Although Adams’ office claimed she had obtained a waiver from the Conflict of Interest Board to serve on the board without compensation, regulators argued that the arrangement could still pose conflicts of interest, given Avangrid’s business ties with the city.
Missing Information in Financial Disclosure
Joseph-Varlack’s 2022 financial disclosure disclosed her position on Avangrid’s board, as required by law. However, her 2023 disclosure, recently obtained by the Daily News, omitted any reference to her role at the energy company.
When questioned about the discrepancy, Adams’ spokesman, Fabien Levy, acknowledged Joseph-Varlack’s continued board membership at Avangrid. He attributed the omission in the 2023 disclosure to a mistake and assured that it would be promptly rectified.
Legal Obligations and Clarifications
Katherine Miller, from the Conflict of Interest Commission, emphasized Joseph-Varlack’s legal obligation to disclose all external official positions held alongside her municipal duties. She refrained from commenting on the exemption Joseph-Varlack received to retain her Avangrid post or providing further details.
The episode underscores the importance of transparency and adherence to financial disclosure regulations, particularly in high-ranking government positions such as Chief of Staff.
