Oak Bay, home of genteel politics

Let’s have some decorum here. It’s Oak Bay, after all.

Oak Bay staff were directed by council last May to develop a council code of conduct and the policy put forth was adopted unanimously this week.

Adoption of the policy “should in no way be construed as there currently being an ethical concern or problem with council behaviours,” Warren Jones, director of corporate services, said in a report to council.

“Rather, adoption of the policy will act as a reminder to this and future councils of the high ethical standards expected of elected officials in Oak Bay.”

Acting mayor Kevin Murdoch said the code was initially suggested by Coun. Michelle Kirby in light of difficulties being experienced by other local governments such as Nanaimo.

“Of course Nanaimo … has an ethics and behaviour policy as well, and it doesn’t seem to help very much,” Murdoch said.

The nine-member Nanaimo council has been in turmoil this year with public bickering, insults, allegations of bullying, lawsuits and even an ongoing police investigation.

Oak Bay’s policy was endorsed to ensure the following points: • Public business is conducted with integrity, in a fair, honest, respectful and open manner. • Council members respect one another, the public and district staff and recognize the unique role and contribution each person has in making the district of Oak Bay a great place to live. • Council members’ professional conduct will be above reproach.

Procedures to be followed that council feels will help ensure those goals include: • Act in the public interest — Councillors are to conduct business with integrity, in a fair, honest and open manner. • Leadership — Councillors are to demonstrate and promote the key principles of the code through their decisions, actions and behaviour. Their behaviours should build and inspire the public’s trust and confidence in local government. Leadership to staff shall be provided through the CAO. • Accountability — Council members are responsible for the decisions they make, including acts of commission and omission. Decision making should be transparent and subject to public scrutiny. • Respect — Council members will conduct public business efficiently and with decorum. They will treat each other and others with respect at all times. This means not using derogatory language toward others, respecting the rights of other people, treating people with courtesy and recognizing the different roles others play in local government decision making. • Confidentiality — Council members will refrain from discussing or disclosing any confidential or personal information with or to staff or with persons outside the organization except as authorized. • Communicating decisions — Council members will accurately communicate the decisions of council even if they disagree with the majority decision. • Respectful workplace — Council members shall treat other members, the public and district staff with respect and shall be supportive of the personal dignity, self-esteem and well being of those with whom they come in contact with during the course of their professional duties.