Purpose.
Seattle Mun. Code § 4.16.020
in effect4.16.020 - Purpose.
A. The City finds that the proper operation of democratic representative government requires that public officers and employees be independent, impartial, and responsible to the people; that government decisions and policy be made in the 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. Accordingly, it is the purpose of this chapter to establish ethical standards of conduct for all officers and employees of the City, whether elected or appointed, paid or unpaid; to set forth those acts that are incompatible with such standards; to require disclosure by such officers and employees of private financial or other interests in matters affecting the City; and to provide effective means for enforcement thereof. This chapter is not to be construed so as to impair the ability of City officers and employees to participate in ceremonial, representational, or informational functions in the pursuit of their official duties.
B. City officers and employees will demonstrate the values of integrity in the performance of the City's business, accountability to the law and to the people we serve, stewardship of the City's resources, and independence in the performance of our jobs. City employees should recognize that public service is a sacred trust, and should strive to live up to the highest ethical standards.
C. This chapter shall be liberally construed in favor of protecting the public's interest in full disclosure of conflicts of interest and promoting ethical standards of conduct for City officers and employees.
D. This Code shall be interpreted and applied to allow inadvertent minor violations to be corrected and cured without full hearing in conformance with the spirit and purpose of this Code.
(Ord. 123010, § 1, 2009; Ord. 115548, § 1, 1991; Ord. 109950, § 1, 1981; Ord. 108882 § 4.16.020, 1980.)
Source: City of Seattle, Seattle Municipal Code and City Charter (Municode Library, library.municode.com)URL: https://library.municode.com/wa/seattle/codes/municipal_code?nodeId=TIT4PE_CH4.16COET_4.16.020PUFetched: 11/1/2026