Ethics panel loses 2 members

Friday, June 9, 2000 | 10:06 a.m.

SUN CAPITAL BUREAU

CARSON CITY -- Two veteran members of the state Ethics Commission are leaving the commission after their terms expire at the end of June.

Retired District Judge Mario Recanzone of Fallon and former Nye County Sheriff Joni Wines, who lives at Lake Tahoe in Douglas County, will be stepping down.

Wines has served two four-year terms and is ineligible for reappointment. Recanzone has served 3 1/2 years and doesn't want another term.

Both praised the current commission and staff, saying they are doing a good job.

The 1999 Legislature, at the request of Gov. Kenny Guinn, enlarged the number of commissioners, overhauled the law and gave the commission a full-time staff.

Recanzone said Wednesday he didn't want reappointment because he's too busy sitting as a senior judge.

"I'm not a kid. I'm 79, and it takes a lot of time and effort."

During his term, the judge, who sat 18 years on the bench before retirement, said public officials "resent our power when we find against them. It's not a very thankful job."

The present commission and staff are filled with "good people," he said.

Wines said it's been a "worthwhile experience" serving the maximum of eight years.