By Beverly Chiasson

A personal conflict of interest, as it applies to a Council Member or their immediate family, is generally defined as having a financial, professional or property stake in a transaction in which your vote could be affected.  

To capture potential conflicts of interest Council Members and Town Managers are required to file a Statement of Economic Interest.  Clearly, we have seen times when unforeseen conflicts arise.  For those occasions, Virginia law allows a legislator to provide an oral disclosure before discussion or as soon as practicable afterwards.  

In January 2025, Council Member Nett filed the following Conflict-of-Interest Disclosure when he voted to terminate former town manager Rick Bremseth and appoint Kwasi Fraser.  The conflict was generated because Kwasi Fraser actively campaigned for Nett.   

Nett benefited from his Council “salary” and clearly Kwasi Fraser benefited from the town manager’s salary.  

On Tuesday February 10th the Purcellville Council agenda included a closed session regarding Sabio’s contract as town manager.  When Nett provided the initial motion to extend Sabio’s contract indefinitely we all waited for the disclosure statement……but there was none.

Over the past two weeks it has been confirmed that Sabio provided a background reference for Nett’s employment as a Purcellville police office.  Clearly this would be a financial gain for Nett.

Nett on February 10th provided the motion and vote to extend Sabio’s town manager’s appointment.  This position is valued at approximately $200,000 per year.  Clearly a financial gain.

Where was the disclosure?  Why didn’t our town attorney request a statement from Nett ?  

Virginia Code Section 30-108 – “A legislator who has a personal interest in a transaction shall disqualify himself from participating in the transaction.” 

Clearly this did not happen…..AGAIN!

Below is Ben Nett’s declaration before voting on Rick Bremseth’s termination.