§ 2-21. Purpose; objectives.

The purpose of this division is to promote the welfare of the citizens of the city through the adoption of a code of ethics to govern all city officers and employees who are employed on a part-time or full-time basis by the city. Within this framework, the general objectives of this division are to:

(1)

Facilitate the proper operation of municipal government by providing officers and employees who are independent, impartial and responsible to the people and able to make governmental decisions and formulate policy within the established channels of governmental structure.

(2)

Ensure that public office or employment is not used for unwarranted personal gain.

(3)

Ensure that the financial interests of employees and public officeholders present neither a conflict nor the appearance of a conflict with the public trust.

(4)

Foster continued recognition of the concept that public employees and officeholders are agents of the public and hold office or employment for the benefit of the public.

(5)

Enhance public confidence in the integrity of its municipal government.

(6)

Promote a recommitment to the concept that public employees and officeholders are required to uphold the United States Constitution, the state constitution and the Charter of the city, and are required to impartially carry out and enforce the laws of the nation, state and city.

(7)

Continue high moral standards in government.

(8)

Reaffirm the policy of the city to adhere not only to the letter, but to the intent of the Sunshine Law, F.S. ch. 286, and the Public Records Law, F.S. ch. 119.

To this end, there is established a code of ethics for the city.

(Code 1991, § 12-1)