Bangor Ethics Board hears public comment on Councilor Mallar's ethics complaint

The Bangor Board of Ethics convened to review a City Council referral regarding remarks made by Councilor Wayne Mallar during a meeting recess. Several residents spoke in support of Mallar, arguing he was speaking as a private citizen, while the board chair emphasized the context of his official capacity. The board began its deliberative process by focusing on whether Mallar's statements were made in his official or private capacity.

Key points

• The board approved the minutes from the June 3, 2026, meeting.
• Public speakers, including Mallar's family members, argued that Mallar was speaking as a private citizen and that the "hot mic" situation was not a setup.
• Chair Shane Leonard clarified that the board follows Democratic Rules of Order and Robert's Rules, and that the chair has authority over meeting conduct, including keeping microphones on during recess.
• The board determined that the threshold issue is whether Mallar was acting in his capacity as a city councilor or as a private citizen, which dictates the application of other ethics provisions.
• Councilor Mallar stated he stands by his comments but maintains they were made as a private individual, not in his official capacity.

Next steps

• The board will continue its discussion to determine if Mallar's statements violated sections 33-1, 33-5.1, or 33-13.1 of the code of ethics.

Read the full transcript