04/10/2006 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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• • • LINO LAKES CITY COUNCIL CODE OF CONDUCT Purpose To establish a Code of Conduct, and associated remedies, that council members agree to abide by in carrying out their duties as elected officials. This Code of Conduct does not supersede any existing or future statutory or constitutional rights, but simply outlines appropriate council expectations, behavior and interactions with each other, city staff, citizens and all other groups encountered as a result of city business, so as to efficiently and effectively develop and carry out the mission, vision, goals and established policies of the city. Role /Responsibilities Meetings - By Charter, the Mayor presides over meetings of the City Council. Speakers, including council members, do not speak until recognized by the Mayor. Act in the Public Interest - Recognizing that service to our citizens must be our primary concern, council members shall work for the common good of the people of Lino Lakes and not for any private or personal interest. Council members will treat all persons, claims and transactions in a fair and equitable manner. Preparation - Council members are expected to be prepared for city council meetings and work sessions. Agenda Preparation - The City Administrator directs preparation of draft meeting agendas. The final agenda is determined by the City Council prior to the meeting. At the council meeting, agenda items may be added or deleted by council members per procedures established in the City Code. Conduct of Members Staff Direction - Mayor and city council members direct city staff, contract employees and consultants only through the City Administrator, as determined by majority vote. At work sessions, the Mayor will state the concerns of Council or specific directions provided by Council to the staff. The City Administrator will request further clarification if he feels it is required so that there is a clear understanding of what Council's expectations are in terms of the actions to be taken by staff. Respect for Staff Time - If a council member is utilizing an inordinate amount of staff time, the City Administrator is required to bring this to the attention of the City Council for resolution. Interactions — Council members shall refrain from abusive conduct, personal charges or verbal attacks upon the character or motives of other members of the City Council, boards, commissions, committees, staff or the public. Respect for Process - Councilmember duties shall be performed in accordance with the processes and rules of order established by the City Council. Use of Public Resources - Public resources not available to the general public (e.g., City staff time, equipment, supplies or facilities) shall not be used by Council members fot private, personal or political purposes. Advocacy - To the best of their ability, council members shall speak with one voice in representing the official policies and positions of the City Council. When presenting their personal opinions or positions, members shall explicitly state that they do not represent the Council or the City. Improper Influence — Council members shall refrain from using their position to improperly influence the deliberations or decisions of city staff, boards, commissions or committees. Positive Work Environment — Council members shall support a positive, efficient and effective environment fot residents, businesses and city employees.