A board member who has participated in an investigation on a complaint filed with the Board must NOT participate in making the final decision on that complaint. True or False?

The assertion that a board member who has participated in an investigation on a complaint filed with the Board must not participate in making the final decision on that complaint aligns with the principles of fairness and impartiality in governance. This principle is critical to ensure that decisions are made without bias or undue influence from those who have previously been involved in gathering information or assessing the circumstances surrounding the complaint.

When a board member is involved in the investigation, they may have formed preconceived notions about the merits of the case or the parties involved. Allowing them to participate in the decision-making process could compromise the integrity of the final decision, as it may lead to a conflict of interest, whether actual or perceived. This practice is fundamental in maintaining the trust of stakeholders in the board’s ability to make impartial decisions.

In the context of governance, it is essential to uphold ethical standards to avoid any appearance of impropriety. Thus, having a separation between those who investigate complaints and those who decide on them reinforces accountability and upholds the credibility of the board's actions.