Board of Ethics Member Appointed in Wildwood

A fairly new Wildwood resident became the newest member of the city's board of ethics committee at Monday's city council meeting. Karen Calcaterra, a resident of Ward 8, was voted in by city council members after being appointed by Mayor Tim Woerther.

Board of ethics volunteers conduct inquiries, as appropriate, to determine if there is cause to believe a violation has occurred related to city business or elected officials. They may be called upon to review potential developments of employees or city officials associated with personal financial interests, political activity, discrimination, fraud or improper influence.

Calcaterra said she moved to in March. She has been a high school principal for the past eight years, and told council members she believed she should do something to give back to her community after encouraging students to do the same.

Council member Tammy Shea, Ward 3, asked Calcaterra at the meeting why she was interested in this particular board and if she felt passionate about ethics.

"Originally when I applied to volunteer with the city, I indicated I would do so in any capacity. Then I thought I would be interested in the (future) Art Fair," said Calcaterra. "But after talking to the mayor about what was available, I thought the skill sets I use every day closely match what would be needed on this board."

She is an assistant principal for Parkway North seniors, and serves on larger Parkway School District committees as well. "I help make long-term decisions when students who are suspended about what's right for our kids and our buildings, so I think those skills would be useful for this board," she said.

Her hobbies include travel, reading, tennis, and spending time with family and friends.

City council member David Geile, Ward 1, told Calcaterra during the interview portion of her appointment Monday that he began his Wildwood-related community volunteerism on the board of ethics. "It's one of those groups where there may not be much happening, but when it does, it's critical. You sounded well-reasoned when we spoke on the phone. I think you'll do a good job," he said.

Calcaterra joins Wildwood residents Rob Wilkerson and Lezli Jones on the three-member board. These volunteer positions reflect three-year terms for each.