ELECTION SEASON
With the 2014 election season approaching it is important
to remember that City Managers should not use public resources to invite
Council members or other city employees to attend political campaigns or meet
and greets when requested to do so by third parties, nor should they attend
them themselves. Neutrality is essential. Attendance to any politically affiliated
event portrays a small act of political activity and appearance can display
support. In the election season, it is
also not a staff function to research and analyze information generated by
third parties on candidates to determine if it’s factual. We recommend you decline any requests as it,
too, is not an appropriate use of public resources (i.e. time). Finally, all
that put aside, local government professionals do not lose their right to voice
opinion by virtue of the job. They
should refrain from political activities that undermine public confidence in
professional administrators.
REPORTING WRONGDOING
There is a cost to silence. It is better to address concerns peer-to-peer
and intervene early for the best possibly outcome. There is professional accountability to
reporting wrongdoing and value in self-policing. As a City Manager, there is a personal
responsibility to prevent damage to the reputation of other professionals and
the profession.
JOB HUNTING
When searching for new employment, there are three
important actions to abide by:
1.
Create Accurate Resumes: This means including
all short tenures, not misstating credentials, and not exaggerating or “hiding”
employment history.
2.
Practice Candor: Be forthcoming in your
history. Demonstrate honesty upfront
then when a background check has already ensued.
3.
Be a free Agent: You are under no ethical
obligation to tell your current employer that you are looking elsewhere. Nevertheless, do not burn bridges. It is a courtesy to provide advance notice to
them before news begins to leak.
When being offered a new job, do not entertain a
counteroffer from your former employer.
It reflect bad form and poorly on the profession.
REAL WORLD ETHICS
ICMA Code of Ethics does not cover spouses.
Remember, while advocating for a candidate may not be
allowed, advocating for an issue is.
