Board members should act with integrity and independence from improper influence as they exercise the duties of their offices. Characteristics and behaviors consistent with this standard include the following:
(A) Adhering firmly to a code of sound values.
(B) Behaving consistently and with respect toward everyone with whom they interact.
(C) Exhibiting trustworthiness.
(D) Living as if they are on duty as elected officials regardless of where they are or what they are doing.
(E) Using their best independent judgment to pursue the common good as they see it, presenting their opinions to all in a reasonable, forthright, consistent manner.
(F) Remaining incorruptible, self-governing, and unaffected by improper influence while at the same time being able to consider the options and ideas of others.
(G) Disclosing contacts and information about issues that they receive outside of public meetings and refraining from seeking or receiving information about quasi-judicial matters outside of the quasi-judicial proceedings themselves.
(H) Treating other Board members and the public with respect, and honoring the opinions of others even when the Board members disagree with those opinions.
(I) Not reaching conclusions on issues until all sides have been heard.
(J) Showing respect for their offices and not behaving in ways that reflect badly on those offices.
(K) Recognizing that they are part of a group and acting accordingly.
(L) Recognizing that individual Board members are not generally allowed to act on behalf of the Board, but may do so only if the Board specifically authorizes it, and that the Board must nonetheless take official action as a body.
(Ord. 10-137, passed 7-20-2010)