At the urging of Mayor Weaver the Breezy Point City Council considered the adoption of a Conflict of Interest Policy and Statement of Values and Conduct. The Conflict of Interest Policy also included some references to other ethical issues.
State Law is rather specific in what constitutes a Conflict of Interest. State Law also requires ethical behavior of elected officials on other issues. One issue is that of the open meeting law. Another issue is that of gifts to elected officials. Conflicts of interest come in a variety of circumstances that are well defined but at times somewhat difficult to grasp as the law is more far reaching than one may think. The policy incorporates situations where the laws are applied helping to better understand what constitutes a conflict and what doesn’t. It also describes conflict situations that may be exempted from law or where notice must be given.
The Statement of Values and Conduct is a policy which defines civility and responsibilities. It asks that all participants work together in a constructive and appropriate manner. Its goal is good government that expresses openness and understanding. It holds us all accountable for actions in the process and outcomes.
All commission and council members are required to uphold the Conflict of Interest Policy requiring them to declare a conflict when it occurs. They will be required to sign off on a receiving a copy of the policy and acknowledging the need to declare a conflict. The statement of Values and Conduct is for all commissions, council and staff members to uphold. Working together in an appropriate manner will only lead to better outcomes.
These documents were adopted at the April 2nd meeting. If you are interested in reviewing them go to the council meeting packet for April, 2012.
