CREED FOR COUNCILMEMBERS AND COMMISSIONERS
As a public official, I believe:
That the proper operation of democratic government requires that public officials be independent and impartial in their judgment and actions; that government decisions and policy be made in the proper channels of the governmental structure; that public office not be used for personal gain; and that the public have confidence in the integrity of its government and public officials.
And that the realization of these ends is impaired whenever there exists, or appears to exist, an actual or potential conflict between the private interests of a governmental official and his or her public duties. Public interest requires high standards with respect to official conduct.
Therefore, as a public official of the City of Stockton, I assert my solemn belief that the primary responsibility for maintaining a high level of conduct among city officials and employees falls upon the Council as the governing body elected by the people. Consequently, as a public official, I believe it is my duty to uphold the expectations of the Council Policy on Conduct of Councilmembers and Commissioners. In accordance with those polices I commit to:
1. Represent and work for the common good of the people of my city and not for private interest, assuring fair and equal treatment of all persons, claims, and transactions coming before me in my official capacity.
2. Learn the background and purposes of all action items before voting and request answers to questions on council agenda items from the city manager, city attorney, and city clerk prior to the meeting whenever possible.
3. Refrain from disclosing confidential information concerning the city government, in accordance with the provisions of the Brown Act. I understand that speaking on activity during Closed Session is a violation of the Brown Act and I may not share Closed Session information with anyone.
4. Help the Council maintain the highest standard of rules of conduct by refusing to approve breaches of public trust or improper attempts to influence legislation and by being willing to vote to censure any public official who willfully violates the duly established rules of conduct. Censure should be for just cause and not for political purposes consistent with the Council Censure Policy.
5. Uphold the standards outlined in the Council Policy Manual Decorum policy.
6. Faithfully perform my duties as a public official by attending all sessions of the meeting body and if applicable, its committees of which I am a member, unless unable to do so for some compelling reason or disability. I will make every attempt to be punctual and ready to conduct business.
Sig
nature Date
Pri
nted Name Title of Office
EXHIBIT 2