The proper operation of democratic government requires that
public officials be independent, impartial and responsible to the
people; that government decisions and policy be made in proper channels
of the governmental structure; 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, there is hereby
established a Code of Ethics for all Village of Allouez officials,
employees, representatives and members of boards, committees, and
commissions. The purpose of this code is to establish guidelines for
ethical standards of conduct for all such officials and employees
by setting forth those acts or actions that are incompatible with
the best interests of the Village and by directing disclosure by such
officials and employees of private financial or other interests in
matters affecting the Village. The provisions and purpose of this
code and such rules and regulations as may be established are hereby
declared to be in the best interests of the Village of Allouez.
Elected officials are agents of public purpose and hold office
for the benefit of the public. They are bound to uphold the Constitution
of the United States and the Constitution of this state and carry
out impartially the laws of the nation, state and municipality, to
observe in their official acts the highest standards of morality,
and to discharge faithfully the duties of their office regardless
of personal considerations, recognizing that the public interest must
be their prime concern. Their conduct in both their official and private
affairs should be above reproach so as to foster respect for all government.
A person required to file a statement of financial and/or personal
interests under this chapter shall file a written statement with the
Village Clerk-Treasurer on a form prescribed by the Ethics Board and
shall supply the following information:
A. The name and address of the person, his or her spouse and minor children,
and all names they use in business and any professional practice.
B. All information required to be reported under the provisions of this
chapter.
C. The names and addresses of the employers of the person and his or
her spouse and a brief statement of the nature of the employment.
D. A description of all parcels of real estate within the Village and
adjoining municipalities in which the person, his or her spouse and/or
minor children own any interest, including an option to purchase.
E. Any license or permit issued by the Village to the person, his or
her spouse and/or minor children, excluding licenses for pets and
bicycles.
When an official or employee has doubt as to the applicability
of a provision of this code to a particular situation or definition
of terms used in the code he or she should apply to the Ethics Board
for an advisory opinion and will be guided by that opinion when given.
The official or employee shall have the opportunity to present his
or her interpretation of the facts at issue and of the applicability
of provisions of the code before such advisory decision is made. This
code shall be operative in all instances covered by its provisions
except when superseded by an applicable statutory provision and statutory
action is mandatory, or when the application of a statutory provision
is discretionary but determined by the Ethics Board to be more appropriate
or desirable.
Violation of any provisions of this chapter may constitute a
cause for suspension, removal from office or employment or other disciplinary
action.