How to Report a Possible Ethical Violation by Staff

City of Santa Monica staff should always strive for the highest ethical standards. To strengthen the City’s commitment to the highest standards of good governance, Santa Monica City Council adopted a values-based Code of Ethics for all City staff on November 24, 2015. It is based on the principles of fairness, transparency, accountability, and integrity. 

Fairness

• I value all stakeholders, and treat all people with dignity. 
• I follow City processes and maintain objectivity in my decision making. 
• I provide equal access to all. 
• I respect diversity of opinions. 

 Integrity 

• I am a guardian of the public’s trust. 
• I represent the City well, refraining from acts that may bring reproach or discredit to the City. 
• I use public resources appropriately, not for private benefit or political purposes. 
• I decline and do not seek gifts, favors, and other special treatment. 

Transparency 

• I support the public’s right to know by making information accessible. 
• I facilitate public involvement in decision making processes. 
• I disclose information that may be perceived as a conflict of interest. 

 Accountability

• I accept individual and collective responsibility for my actions. 
• I adhere to laws, policies, standards of conduct, and report violations.
• I am Reliable, Respectful, Resourceful, Responsive, and Reflective.

• Online
• Phone