What is a CIQ?

During the 2005 Texas Legislative Session House Bill 914 passed and became effective on January 1, 2006 (Chapter 176 of the Local Government Code).   The bill requires individuals or businesses who contract business with the district to file a Conflict of Interest Questionnaire (CIQ).   

The conflict of interest questionnaire and disclosure statements was created by the Texas Ethics Commission (TEC) and is available online here:
Conflict of Interest Questionnaire
Conflict Disclosure Statement

The bill appears to apply to all persons or businesses who conduct business with the District, including those who submit bids on contracts or participate in any other purchase or sales transactions.

When must the form be completed?

A person who wishes to conduct business with the District must file a questionnaire no later than seven days after the date the person begins contract discussions or negotiations with the District, or submits an application or response to a request for proposals or bids, correspondence, or another writing related to a potential agreement with the District.

What happens to the CIQ once I turn it in?

The District is required to maintain a list of businesses and Board members who are subject to the bill and make the list available to the public.  Once completed, these forms become Public Information and the District is required to provide access to the statements and questionnaires on the District’s Internet Web site. A list of completed CIQ forms follows below.

What happens if the form is not filed?

Anyone who knowingly fails to file the statement commits a class C misdemeanor. A class C misdemeanor is punishable by a fine of up to $500.