the municipal secretary desktop reference manual - Southwestern ...

Commentary
Gauging the public's perception of its local government, and determining whether or not elected
officials are serving the public interest, is, by its very nature, an imprecise exercise. "The public
interest" is not always obvious. Honest and dedicated public officials can disagree on what
constitutes a best course of action, and both sides can claim "right." And, leadership sometimes
requires a willingness to inflict pain on behalf of the common good C never a popular stand with
those on the 'losing side." But there are some clear indicators of image trouble that are clearly within
the control of the governing body. For example:
! When there is frequent turnover in the position of manager, secretary or administrator.
Usually, this is a clear indication of politics overwhelming municipal management.
! When elected officials are unable, or unwilling, to respond to questions from the public or
explain votes; when it is obvious that they have not done the necessary homework to
intelligently respond to agenda items; when the solicitor is, routinely, the spokesperson
for the elected officials.
! When personality conflicts among members of the governing body dominate over
problems and issues. When bickering, vituperative and abusive language, and even
physical encounters come to characterize meetings of the elected officials. It is cause for
concern when public meetings come to be seen as "the best show in town" or "government
by uproar."
! When media headlines such as those indicated below exhibit corruption or unethical
conduct.
- "Mayor's backer wins $36,000 no-bid pact"
- "Federal grand jury questions 2 officials"
- "Mystery truck took borough furniture"
- "Auditor: 'Corruption has thrived"'
- "Structure-built by solicitor's firm lacks permits"
- "Mall developer's gifts to council members questioned"
- "Court unseats township officials"
- AAudit rips township management"
- "Councilman's son fills authority post"
If these or similar actions, characterize the local government, the above standard should be
considered "not met."
4. The governing body has adopted and adheres to a Code of ethics that complies with the
standards which appear in Section XIV of this workbook.
Commentary
Codes of Ethics cannot claim to transform individuals who use their public position for self-serving
purposes. For example: using public office for personal financial gain; taking gifts or accepting
privileges beyond that available to all persons and businesses; awarding public jobs to friends and
relatives; using public employees for political purposes. However, a well drafted Ethics Code does
establish standards which emphasize conduct that furthers the public interest and fosters
accountability. A good Code, too, will set forth procedures for monitoring compliance and providing
penalties for violation of Code provisions. Adoption of a strong and comprehensive Ethics Code
sends the right signal to the public.
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