(a) The citizens and businesses of the City of Chardon are entitled to have fair, ethical and accountable local government which has earned the public's full confidence and trust for integrity. In pursuit of a commitment to excellence, the effective functioning of local government requires that public officials, both elected and appointed, comply with both the letter and spirit of the laws and policies affecting the operations of government; avoid misconduct and conflicts of interest, either apparent or real; public officials be independent, impartial and fair in their judgment and actions; public office be used for the public good, not for personal gain and advancement; and public deliberations and proceedings be conducted in an atmosphere of respect and civility and openly, unless the topic is one which under the Ohio Revised Code may be discussed in executive session.
(b) To this end, the Council of the City of Chardon adopts herein ethical standards for members of the Council and the City's boards and commissions to assure the public's trust in the integrity of local government and its effective and fair operation.
(Ord. 2419. Passed 9-13-07.)