The Code of Ethics for our Common Good
Terms
The term, elected official, used in this document shall include all elected officials, their staffs and their appointments.
CONFLICT OF INTEREST AND OUTSIDE EMPLOYMENT STATEMENT
All elected officials must devote their best efforts to the interests of their constituents and conduct business according to the highest ethical standards of public service.
The voters recognize the right of Elected officials to engage in outside activities that are private in nature and unrelated to governmental business. However, business dealings that create or appear to create a conflict between the elected official and his/her constituents will be considered a violation of this policy. A potential or actual conflict of interest occurs whenever an elected official is in a position to influence a governmental decision that may result in a personal gain for the elected official or an immediate relative including a spouse or significant other, child, parent, stepchild, sibling, grandparents, daughter-in-law, son-in-law, grandchildren, niece, nephew, uncle, aunt, first cousin or any person related by blood or marriage residing in an elected official’s household.
Outside Employment
Elected officials are prohibited from engaging in outside employment activities while on the job or using governmental time, supplies or equipment in the outside employment activities. Elected officials are restricted from holding an interest in, or being employed by, any business doing business with the government.
Elected officials may be required to work beyond their normally scheduled hours. Elected officials must perform this work when requested. In cases of conflict with any outside activity, the elected official's obligations are to his/her constituents.
Elected officials are hired and continue in their constituents’ employ with the understanding that their constituents are their primary employer and that other employment or commercial involvement, which is in conflict with the best interests of the his/her constituents is strictly prohibited.
Acceptance of Gifts
Elected officials may not accept personal donations, gratuities, or gifts, as a direct result of their elected office or could be interpreted to affect their conduct in the performance of their duties as an elected official. Elected officials are prohibited from accepting donations, gratuities, contributions and gifts from a vendor doing business with or seeking to do business with the government, or any person or firm seeking to influence governmental decisions. Meals and other entertainment valued in excess of $25.00 are also prohibited. Elected officials are required to report to his/her constituents any offer of a donation, gratuity, contribution or gift including meals and entertainment that is in violation of this policy.
Violations of This Policy
A violation of this policy will result in immediate and appropriate discipline, up to and including immediate termination and criminal prosecution.
