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wish to begin “from scratch” by brainstor ming the principles, standards and <br />behaviors that they expect — and draft the code of conduct after the session. Either <br />way is acceptable. <br />Don’t attempt to edit the document to perfection in the g roup setting. After the <br />session, have your best writer polish the draft and bring it back for for mal adoption at <br />the next regularly scheduled council meeting. This gives the community a better <br />chance to weigh in and take note of how the council is committing to car r y out the <br />public’s business. <br />Code of Conduct Models and Examples <br />Avoid attempting to address ever y eventuality. If the document is too dense, it will be <br />ignored. Keep it general, in the council’s words and in ter ms that ever yone can easily <br />g rasp. The following examples offer some typical elements, but this list is not <br />intended to sug gest that a code of conduct would include all of these elements. <br />Demonstrate honesty and integ rity in ever y action and statement; <br />Inspire public confidence in our city g over nment; <br />Work for the common good, not personal interest; <br />Respect the proper roles of elected officials and city staff in ensuring open and <br />effective gover nment; <br />Disag ree agreeably and professionally (use appropriate language, tone, nonverbal <br />gestures, etc.); <br />Share infor mation and avoid surprises; <br />Approach the business of g overning in a professional manner — conduct <br />business in a way that brings honor to the institution of g over nment; <br />Praise in public, criticize in private;