§ 2-200. Policy.

(a)

It is the policy of the city to affirm that the right to govern is a direct grant and privilege bestowed by the people of the city; that such responsibility is a public trust; that it requires independence, impartiality and responsibility on behalf of, and only to, the people of the city.

(b)

Within this policy, all city officials shall recognize this public trust and shall function within both this code of ethics and a higher personal ethical standard. As such, city officials shall perform no act or provide no occasion for distrust of their integrity, credibility or their devotion to the best interests of the city.

(c)

This article has four (4) purposes:

(1)

Encourage high ethical standards in official conduct by city officials and employees;

(2)

To establish guidelines for ethical standards of conduct for all such officials and employees by setting forth those acts or actions that are incompatible with the best interests of the city;

(3)

To require disclosure by such officials and employees of private financial or other interests in matters affecting the city; and

(4)

To serve as a basis for disciplining those who refuse to abide by its terms.

(Ord. No. 97-38, § 1, 12-2-1997)