Ethics code comes to town staff

Times Contributor     

 

Town council considered and accepted the application of a staff code of ethics and conduct, on June 5 in Council Chambers.

“Administration has developed a Code of Ethics and Conduct Policy, something we haven’t had in the past,” said Linda Nelson, deputy chief administration officer who put the document forward for council’s review and acceptance.

The guidelines define the manner of conduct expected from staff and give a process for reporting allegations and breaches in the code. It also offers protection in situations requiring anonymity.

The code expects staff members will behave in a manner that reflects respect, common sense, good judgement and discreation. Discrimination, bullying, harrassment, or violence aren’t tolerated. 

Staff will be made aware of the policy and the process to report breaches. The code is based on respect for race, color, religious beliefs, age, gender, sexuality,marital status, disabilites, place of origin and income. 

Displinary measures are established for:

• unreasonable and unwelcome conduct, 

• off colour jokes or written materials,

• patronization or condesending behavior,

• implicite or explicite discriminatory comments

• creating a hostile environment

• Sexual harrassment includes flirtation, propositions, advances, gestures, questions on sexual behaviour, comments on body or attire, physical touching, sex for favours or sexual assault.

Criticism of another’s opinion and pettiness are discouraged. 

Staff are required to uphold laws and bylaws at all government levels. No favours are allowed for awarded positions or contracts. Public property can’t be used for private use. Staff are encouraged to be informed about their area of expertise and take advantage of upgrade training. Staff should positively represent the municipality as a whole. They are prohibited from placing themselves in situations with a conflict of interest or breach of trust.

Repeated patterns of intended intimidation, offense, degradation, humiliation , threats , psychological or physical abuse, or sexual harrassment, spreading rumors and gossip, excluding people, or socially isolating them, persistent criticism, tampering with belongings, confining or cornering someone from leaving an area, assigning unreasonable duties or workloads all have penalties. Penalties range between pay levels, disciplinary action to termination of employment.

For full details see the Town of Strathmore website: www.townofstrathmore.com June 5 agenda.