ME LD1560

Municipal contracts are now voidable if an official involved in negotiation or award has a direct or indirect pecuniary interest, even when obtained through properly advertised competitive bid procedures

Expands conflict of interest protections specifically for municipalities beyond the existing rules for counties and quasi-municipal corporations

Creates an exception allowing municipalities to award contracts to conflicted officials when no other option is feasible

Requires municipalities using this exception to appoint an independent board of 3 residents to address grievances against the contracted business for the duration of the contract

Applies to officials who are officers, directors, partners, associates, employees, or stockholders of private corporations or business entities receiving municipal contracts