01 - Laserfiche WebLink

BACKGROUND On February 24, 2023, the City Council participated in a Governance Workshop presented by Amy Howorth, a consultant with Municipal Resource Group, LLC. At the workshop, the City Council began the process of developing City Council Norms and discussed the possible establishment of a City Council Code of Conduct. DISCUSSION City Council Norms At the Governance Workshop, the City Council offered the following suggestions for some possible norms: INVEST IN RESPECT— To build constructive and valued relationships for effective governance. • Treat each other with respect. • Do not ridicule or belittle. • Do not criticize those that have different viewpoints. SHOWCASE ETHICAL & PROFESSIONAL LEADERSHIP — To inspire public confidence in our city government. • Approach with professionalism and bring a positive reputation to the organization. • Maintain confidentiality. • Be positive when speaking in public. COMMUNICATE WITH TRUST— To create a constructive environment for deliberations and policy making resulting in improved outcomes as elected leaders. • Honor discussion before a decision. • Everyone participates; no one dominates. • Disagree professionally, using appropriate tone. • Prepare in advance; contact staff ahead of meetings with questions. • Praise in public and criticize in private. • Listen (actively) when others are speaking. • Make eye contact when other Councilmembers or members of the public are speaking. • No cellphones out on the dais. Staff recommends that the City Council review and approve these draft norms. Staff will then return with the norms at a subsequent City Council meeting for adoption. City Council Code of Conduct At the Governance Workshop, the City Council also discussed the possible establishment of a City Council Code of Conduct. Page 2 of 4