The Preamble
 

"The care of human life and happiness, and not their destruction, is the first and only legitimate object of good government." Andrew Jackson.

"The stewardship of public officers is a serious and sacred trust.... Public office means serving the public and nobody else." Franklin Delano Roosevelt.

The basic mandate of government is to provide for the common good and welfare of its citizens. The public has entrusted this mandate to the officials that make up the various governmental bodies. In recognizing this mandate, elected officials, their appointees, and other public officials owe the public a duty to give quality service, selfless loyalty and fair dealing.

In providing for the common good of the citizens of Shelby County, all segments of Shelby County Government are committed to excellence in providing innovative service. The foundation upon which the commitment to excellence stands is the absolute requirement that public officials of Shelby County Government adhere to the highest ethical standards. Indeed, the proper function of a democratic government requires that county officers and employees be independent, impartial and accountable to the people of Shelby County. The basic function of county government requires the avoidance of conflict of interest or use of position for personal gain. It must always be remembered that any action taken by a public official which tends to weaken public trust and confidence undermines the foundation of government.

All agree that public officials must perform their duties in ways that foster public trust. However, basic human nature and interaction between and among individuals and entities produces unlimited circumstances that result in differing opinions and views about ethical behavior. This Code of Ethical Conduct is intended to provide guidance in finding answers to the endless ethical questions that arise. In addition, the principles contained within this Code also apply to the day-to-day conduct of all public officials of Shelby County.

It must be recognized that this Code is a living document. Interpretation of its terms will necessarily evolve as its terms are applied to the infinite circumstances faced by our public officials, as they carry out their duties.

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