Sooke council is finalizing conduct rules for its members, aiming to ensure respectful communication and behaviour.
The written document will set shared expectations for council members when interacting with each other, staff, volunteers, and the public, and when using district facilities or services.
On July 15, staff presented a recommendation at a committee of the whole meeting.
The proposal outlines expectations for the behaviour of council members during official duties. It also provides a straightforward process, breaking the bylaw into a legislative framework on the principles of a council code of conduct and complaint and resolution procedures.
"A code of conduct promotes good governance by setting clear expectations for council members' behaviour and ensuring decisions are made with integrity, accountability, respect, and leadership," said corporate officer Jessica Bagnall in her report.
Councillors championed the introduction of the code of conduct.
Coun. Kevin Pearson emphasized that the code is not just a set of restrictions but an opportunity to encourage ethical and respectful discussion and to build a strong community and organizational culture. He suggested including the code in civic election nomination packages.
Mayor Maja Tait highlighted the importance of respect and safety within the municipal hall. She proposed regular reviews of the bylaw to address any emerging issues, an idea supported by Pearson and Coun. Jeff Bateman.
Council expects to vote on the first three readings of the bylaw at its next meeting, with final adoption anticipated by late summer.
