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Ethical Leadership <br />Ethical leadership is vital to the functioning of the city and to maintain the public's trust and <br />confidence in the city and democratic process. <br />Key Traits of Ethical Leaders <br />City of Ramsey — Draft for Discussion <br />February 19, 2013 <br />• Recognize that ethical questions may be complex. As a result, they are willing to <br />seek and accept the advice of knowledgeable officials such as the city administrator, <br />city attorney or city staff. <br />• Understand that ethical conflicts are inevitable and should be dealt with <br />forthrightly. On occasion, it is expected that they members of this organization may <br />have needs or roles in their private lives that conflict with their public obligations. <br />Ethical officials are open about potential conflicts of interest and follow applicable <br />rules for disclosing and dealing with the conflict (such as refraining from voting on <br />a particular issue) to avoid even the appearance of impropriety. <br />• Driven by fairness. The most ethical members of our organization recognize that <br />many city decisions will have adverse as well as positive outcomes and they, <br />therefore, strive to make the best decision as defined by its ultimate fairness to all <br />concerned. This often means making impartial decisions on the merits of the issues <br />alone, while disregarding personal allegiances. It can also mean taking into account <br />interests of citizens who are not present or who have not otherwise commented, but <br />who are nonetheless affected by a decision. Ethical officials try to make decisions in <br />the best interest of all in the community, not just those who show up at a meeting or <br />protest the loudest. <br />• Know the importance of conscientious and ethical government as a value in itself <br />Ethical members of our organization do not use their office, position, or authority for <br />revenge, prestige, or personal gain. Ethical members of our organization recognize that <br />government is a human institution. As a result, the human motivations of those in <br />government will determine if the government itself is effective or ineffective, good or <br />bad, ethical or unethical. Ethical members of our organization care enough to make a <br />positive difference and then act accordingly. <br />Page 7 <br />