What must be done if a board member claims a recusal?

If a board member claims a recusal, the minutes of the meeting must note their reason for recusal. Documenting the reason in the official minutes ensures transparency and provides a record of the member's conflict of interest or any other valid grounds for their recusal. This practice helps maintain accountability within the board and keeps accurate records for future reference, especially in compliance with legal and ethical standards.

By including the reason in the minutes, the board can demonstrate that it is addressing potential conflicts and acting in accordance with its governance policies. This is crucial for making informed decisions in a compliant manner, as it allows other board members and stakeholders to understand the dynamics of the situation and the rationale behind the recusal.

In contrast, while a formal letter could be useful for personal documentation, it is not a requirement for the meeting's official records. Alerting the authorities may not be necessary unless there is a legal issue that requires such action. Remaining silent would not uphold the principles of transparency and accountability that good governance demands.