(a) The proper operation of democratic government requires that public officials and employees be independent, impartial and responsible to the people; that government decisions and policy be made in proper channels of the governmental structure; that public office not be used for personal gain; and that the public have confidence in the integrity of its government. In recognition of these goals, there is hereby established in this Chapter a Code of Ethics for all Village of Edgar officials and employees, whether elected or appointed, paid or unpaid, including members of boards, committees and commissions of the Village, as well as any individuals who are candidates for elective office as soon as such individuals file nomination papers with the Village of Edgar.
(b) The purpose of this Ethics Code is 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 Village of Edgar and by directing disclosure by such officials and employees of private financial or other interests in matters affecting the Village. The Village Board believes that a Code of Ethics for the guidance of elected and appointed officials and employees will help them avoid conflicts between their personal interests and their public responsibilities, will improve standards of public service and will promote and strengthen the faith and confidence of the citizens of this Village in their elected and appointed officials and employees. The Village Board hereby reaffirms that each elected and appointed Village official and employee holds his or her position as a public trust, and any intentional effort to realize substantial personal gain through official conduct is a violation of that trust. The provisions and purpose of this Ethics Code and such rules and regulations as may be established are hereby declared to be in the best interests of the Village of Edgar.
The following definitions shall be applicable in this Chapter:
(a) Public Official. Those persons serving in statutory elected or appointed offices provided for in Chapter 61, Wis. Stats., and all members appointed to boards, committees and commissions established or appointed by the Village President and/or Village Board pursuant to this Code of Ordinances, whether paid or unpaid.
(b) Public Employee. Any person excluded from the definition of a public official who is employed by the Village of Edgar.
(c) Anything of Value. Any money or property, favor, service, payment, advance, forbearance, loan, or promise of future employment, but does not include compensation or expense reimbursement paid by the Village, honorariums, fees and expenses under the standards and reporting requirements set forth in Sec. 19.56, Wis. Stats., campaign contributions as regulated by Section 2-5-7(k) of this Chapter, or hospitality extended for a purpose unrelated to Village business by a person other than a firm, corporation, partnership, or joint venture.
(d) Business. Any corporation, partnership, proprietorship, firm, enterprise, franchise, association, organization, self-employed individual or any other legal entity which engages in profit-making activities.
(e) Personal Interest. Any interest arising from blood or marriage relationships or from close business or political associations, whether or not any financial interest is involved.
(f) Significant Interest. Owning or controlling, directly or indirectly, at least ten percent (10%) or Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000.00) of the outstanding stock of at least ten percent (10%) or Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000.00) of any business.
(g) Financial Interest. Any interest which shall yield, directly or indirectly, a monetary or other material benefit to the officer or employee or to any person employing or retaining the services of the officer or employee.
Loading...