(A) It is the policy of the city to uphold, promote and demand the highest standards of ethics from all its employees and officials, whether elected, appointed or hired. City officers and employees (public servants) shall maintain the highest standards of personal integrity, truthfulness, honesty and fairness in carrying out their public duties; avoid any improprieties in their roles as public servants including the appearance of impropriety; and never use their city position or powers for improper personal gain.
(B) It is further the intent of this chapter that a public servant, regardless of whether specifically prohibited by this chapter, shall avoid any action, which might result in or create the appearance of:
(1) Using public office or employment for private gain personal or monetary;
(2) Giving improper preferential treatment to any person or organization;
(3) Impeding government efficiency or economy;
(4) A lack of independence or impartiality of action;
(5) Making a government decision outside of official channels; or
(6) Affecting adversely the confidence of the public in the integrity of the city.
(C) It is not the intent of this chapter to in any way limit the right or ability of any public servant to exercise his or her discretion in making legitimate policy decisions which are within their discretion so long as the action does not provide a special benefit to that person, relieve the public servant of a particular duty, or treat that person differently than other similarly situated city residents.
(Ord. 2008-11, passed 8-26-2008)