Title
An Ordinance amending Chapter 25 of the Code of Ordinances by clarifying the Policy Declaration Statement, incorporating Special Purpose Governmental Entities and qualified adults into the Ethics Act, expanding the financial interest and private interest disclosure requirements, clarifying conflicts of interest, incorporating a provision regarding official misconduct, and revising the penalties structure under the Ethics Act. [Council Office, Maynard]
Summary
Body
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE LEXINGTON-FAYETTE COUNTY GOVERNMENT:
Section 1 - That Section 25-2 of the Code of Ordinances be and hereby is amended to read as follows:
Sec. 25-2. -Declarations.
The Council of the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government finds and declares that:
(1) The proper operation of democratic government requires that public officials and employees be independent, impartial, and responsible to the people; that government decisions and policy be made in the best interests of the people, the community, and the government; that public office not be used for personal gain; and that the public have confidence in the integrity of its government. In recognition of these goals, the following code of ethics shall apply to all officers and employees of the Merged Government, whether elected or appointed, paid or unpaid, and to officers and employees of other independent agencies where so provided by special laws applicable to such other independent agencies.
(2) Public office and employment are public trusts.
(3) The vitality and stability of the government depends upon the public's confidence in the integrity of its elected and appointed officers and employees. Whenever the public perceives a conflict between the private interests and public duties of a public officer or employee, that confidence is imperiled.
(4) The government has a duty to provide its citizens with standards by which they may determine whether public duties are being fait...
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