Policy E7 Ethical Standards of Conduct for Elected Officials

E-7


CENTRAL COAST REGIONAL DISTRICT

Policy: Ethical Standards of Conduct for Elected Officials

Preamble: This policy is based on the position taken by the UBCM (reference December 8, 1980 UBCM correspondence).

Policy: Elected local government officials shall:

1.  Maintain the highest ideals of honour and integrity in public and personal relationships and shall discharge faithfully the duties of office without fear or favour.

2.   Declare at the first opportunity their interests, or known interests of any close relatives, friends, or associates in any enterprise which proposes to transact business with their municipality or regional district; should not vote on the matter; and should leave the place of the meeting during such discussion and vote.

3.   Declare at the first opportunity their interests or known interests of any close relatives, friends or associates in any property which is subject to a rezoning proposal, development proposal, subdivision or any permit or other consideration within their municipality or regional district; should not vote on the matter; and should leave the place of the meeting during such discussion and vote.

4.   Not knowingly use confidential information for the personal profit of themselves, close relatives, friends, or associates for the purpose of gaining benefits.

5.  Refrain from communicating confidential information to anyone not entitled to receive same.

6.  Refrain from using their position to secure special privileges, favours, or exemptions for themselves, or any close relatives, friends or associates.

7.  Be hereby cautioned to avoid any situations that would cause any reasonable person to believe that they may have brought bias or partiality to a question before the Council or Regional Board.

8.  For a period of 6 months after leaving office, abide by these ethical standards of conduct.

9.  That when items of business are discussed by the Board of a personal interest to any of the directors or staff, the individual should not only abstain from the discussion and voting, but also absent themselves from the meeting.


Date:  Reviewed Feb. 11, 2004