2016 Spencer Handbook

Table of Contents

with the City’s unions. When in conflict, the terms of the collective bargaining agreements will control, except to the extent this manual is determined to reflect the requirements of federal or state law which supersede the collective bargaining agreements. Department heads shall be covered by the policies outlined in this Handbook, except for specific exceptions of these policies granted by an individual contract or agreement with the City Council, either by motion or by resolution. This Handbook is provided for informational purposes only. The policies, procedures, benefits and plans described in this Handbook may be revised by the City at any time without prior notice. The City retains the exclusive right to change, add to, eliminate or modify any of the policies in the Handbook at anytime at its discretion, with or without notice. Any promises, representations or actions by a City official or employee which are contrary to this Handbook are not the official policy of the City, and are of no force or effect. This Handbook supersedes and cancels the effect of any previous versions of this Employee Handbook. CODE OF ETHICS The City is committed to high standards of conduct by and among employees in the performance of their duties. Individual and collective adherence to high ethical standards is central to the maintenance of public trust and confidence in government. While employees may agree on the need for proper conduct, they may experience personal conflict or differing view of values or loyalties. In such cases the principles contained in this Code of Ethics provide valuable guidance in reaching decisions which are governed, ultimately, by the dictates of the individual conscience of the employee and his or her commitment to the public good. Certain of these ethical principles are best expressed as positive statements: actions which should be taken; courses which should be followed; goals which should permeate both public and private conduct. Other principles are expressed as negative statements: actions to be avoided and conduct to be condemned.

The City Code of Ethics herein applies to the day to day conduct of all employees of the City.

The ethical City employee must: 1. Promote decisions which only benefit the public interest. 2. Promote public confidence in City government. 3. Keep safe all funds and other properties of the City. 4. Perform the work of the City diligently, promptly and efficiently. 5. Maintain a positive image to pass constant public scrutiny.

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