Ethics

The code of ethics of the International City/County Management Association, including any and all amendments adopted thereto, has been adopted by reference as the Code of Ethics of the Missouri City/County Management Association. By accepting membership in MCMA, all members agree to adhere to the ICMA Code of Ethics.

Tenet 1

We believe professional management is essential to efficient and democratic local government by elected officials.

Tenet 2

Affirm the dignity and worth of local government services and maintain a deep sense of social responsibility as a trusted public servant.

Tenet 3

Demonstrate by word and action the highest standards of ethical conduct and integrity in all public, professional, and personal relationships in order that the member may merit the trust and respect of the elected and appointed officials, employees, and the public.

Tenet 4

Serve the best interests of the people.

Tenet 5

Submit policy proposals to elected officials; provide them with facts, and technical and professional advice about policy options; and collaborate with them in setting goals for the community and organization.

Tenet 6

Recognize that elected representatives are accountable to their community for the decisions they make; members are responsible for implementing those decisions.

Tenet 7

Refrain from all political activities which undermine public confidence in professional administrators. Refrain from participation in the election of the members of the employing legislative body.

Tenet 8

Make it a duty continually to improve the member's professional ability and to develop the competence of associates in the use of management techniques.

Tenet 9

Keep the community informed on local government affairs; encourage communication between the citizens and all local government officers; emphasize friendly and courteous service to the public; and seek to improve the quality and image of public service.

Tenet 10

Resist any encroachment on professional responsibilities, believing the member should be free to carry out official policies without interference, and handle each problem without discrimination on the basis of principle and justice.

Tenet 11

Handle all matters of personnel on the basis of merit so that fairness and impartiality govern a member's decisions, pertaining to appointments, pay adjustments, promotions, and discipline.

Tenet 12

Public office is a public trust. A member shall not leverage his or her position for personal gain or benefit.

Full Version

View the full version of the ICMA Code of Ethics with guidelines.