City of Richmond Achieves “Certified City of Ethics” Distinction

– Special to 1340 WEKY-AM –

The City of Richmond recently received the “Certified City of Ethics” designation.
Mayor Barnes stated that he heard about the program at the Kentucky League of Cities conference last year and felt the city could benefit from these additions to the Ethics Ordinance to ensure another layer of checks and balances, increases transparency, etc.

The voluntary program, developed by the Kentucky League of Cities (KLC), encourages cities to adopt and adhere to a set of key ethical principles and a comprehensive model ethics ordinance. The ordinance guides conduct of city officials and their employees in areas such as financial disclosures, conflicts of interests and outside employment. The ordinance also contains strong penalty provisions – including public reprimands, fines and removal – for city officials and employees who violate the ordinance.

The certification process also includes specific training which city officials and the board of ethics completed on August 8, 2015.

KLC reviewed the code of ethics ordinance to determine if they comply with the criteria set out in KRS 65.003. The city received a plaque and is now authorized by KLC to use a “Certified City of Ethics” logo on stationery, road signs, city vehicles and other uses.

Based in Lexington, KLC is a voluntary, nonprofit membership association that provides legislative advocacy, legal services, consulting services, and training to more than 360 member cities. KLC also provides insurance and financial services to municipal agencies throughout Kentucky.

For more information on the Certified City of Ethics designation, contact KLC at 800.876.4552.