In partnership with local communities, City Councils, City Managers and the City Clerks Association of California, the California Ethics & Democracy Project explores the Clerk’s role in fostering codes of values and ethics, campaign finance reform, community and voter outreach efforts, and other good government programs.

At the core of the City Clerk profession is the impartiality of the office: “To be ever mindful of my neutrality and impartiality, rendering equal service to all and to extend the same treatment I wish to receive myself.” (IIMC Code of Ethics).

This unbiased nature is unique in government and provides a license to implement good government programs in a manner that is beyond reproach and increases public engagement in the process of democracy.

There are both moral and practical reasons for the California Ethics & Democracy Project. Moral reasons of fairness in the process of government and the community pride that comes along with it. Practical reasons in the increased caliber of public service and stability that these programs yield in our municipal leaders.

The tangible goals of the program are simple:

1. To formulate a set of best practices.
2. To provide a venue for sharing resources and examples.
3. To formulate an educational curriculum to teach the skills necessary to implement these programs.

But, the long-term benefits in a more productive body politic will be immeasurable. Please see more information and occasional updates on this website, and feel free to contact us directly.