HomeMy WebLinkAbout03/03/2026 05.B. Principles of Conduct and Code of Ethics •
BUSINESS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
YAKIMA, WASHINGTON
AGENDA STATEMENT
Item No. 5.B.
For Meeting of: March 3, 2026
ITEM TITLE: Principles of Conduct and Code of Ethics
SUBMITTED BY: Vicki Baker, City Manager
SUMMARY EXPLANATION:
Attached are the updated Principles of Conduct and Code of Ethics documents for City Council approval.
These documents are updated every time there is an election or a change in Council membership.
ITEM BUDGETED: N/A
STRATEGIC PRIORITY 24-25: An Engaged Yakima
RECOMMENDATION: Approve the Principles of Conduct and Code of Ethics for City Council
ATTACHMENTS:
2026 Principles of Conduct for Council Members.doc
2026 Code of Ethics for Yakima City Council Members.doc
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PRINCIPLES INCIcPL S of COJVD?CTfor 2TA?I914A CITY COVNCIL 514E94BEI?5
Adopted March 3, 2026
The Principles of Conduct is supplemental to the Yakima Minicipal Code and the Code of Ethics and
applies to the City Council The Principles of Conduct describes how City of'Yakima Council-members
treat each other and worktogetherfor the common good of the community. Conducting the City's
business in an atmosphere of respect and civility is the underlying theme in this Code. City Council
members are responsible for holding themselves and each other accountable for displaying actions and
behaviors that consistently model the ideals expressed in the Code.
As a City Council member, of the City of'Yakima, I agree to these principles of conduct:
I Consistently demonstrate the principles of professionalism, respect, and civility in
working for the greater good of Yakima.
II. Treat each other with trust, respect, honestly,fairness, sensitivity, and dignity.
III. Committed to acting and being seen as acting with integrity and impartiality that will
bear the closest scrutiny.
IV Committed to working with City officials and staff in a conscientious and respectful-
manner.
V Support a positive and constructive environment for residents, businesses, and City
employees.
VI. Refrain from abusive conduct,personal charges, or verbal attacks upon the character or
motives of other members of the City Council, boards, commission, committees, staff, or the
public.
VII. Refrain from influencing any person in an improper way to try to obtain any advantages or
favors.
VIII. Avoid personal comments that could offend others.
IX. Listen courteously and attentively to all public discussions and treat all people the way I wish
to be treated.
X. Be aware that written notes, voicemail messages, email, and other communication that occurs
during the conduct of the City's business is subject to public disclosure. Even private
conversations can have a public presence.
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CODE of ETJTICS for`YAKIEV1 A CITT COVWCIL .94 EgIMEI5,S
Council Members will hereafter conduct themselves according to the following rules of conduct
as they pertain to work for, and on behalf of, the City of Yakima:
I. Council Members shall maintain decorum and set an example for conduct when
representing the City, and endeavor not to disgrace or embarrass the City while
acting in an official capacity.
II. Council Members shall represent that opinions stated are the Member's own and
do not necessarily represent those of the Council unless the Council has voted and
passed an ordinance, resolution or motion that so states the expressed policy.
III. Council Members shall not divulge information discussed in executive session.
I� Council Members shall make public any conflict of interest the Member has with
respect to any issue under consideration by the Council. The Council Member
shall not participate in discussions of the subject and shall not vote on it if the
Council Member has a personal,financial or property involvement in the subject.
V Council Members shall not use their position or City resources for personal or
family gain, especially financial-gain, including the acceptance of gifts and gratuities.
"I. Council Members shall not hold or acquire a financial interest in any contract voted on
by them for one year after leaving office.
"II. Council Members shall not assist or represent parties in official City matters they were
involved in while in office for one year after leaving office.
"III. Council Members shall not make knowingly and intentionally false statements on
which the Council, City staff or other agencies rely to establish policy or make
important decisions.
Dated the 3rd day of March , 2026
Matt gown, Mayor reedy'Berg,Assistant Mayor
Leo Roy, CouncilMember Felisa Gonzalez, CouncilMember
'Patricia'Byers, CouncilMember Juliet cPotrykus, CouncilMember
cRjckGlenn, Council Member
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