Round Lake village board approves 'code of conduct'

Round Lake has established a new code of conduct policy to serve as a guide for how business is conducted by elected officials in the village.

Mayor Jim Dietz said creating the resolution was first discussed by the board several months ago in response to past disagreements among board members. Learning other villages had implemented a similar policy, Dietz said creating the policy will ensure elected officials will begin discussions to resolve their differences.

Following approval of the policy at Monday's meeting, board member Susan Triphahn said village employees are required to follow a code of ethics and conduct, so why shouldn't elected officials be held to the same standards. She added this document is a formality to reiterate what they should already know through common sense.

“It puts us in the same position to act appropriately and to treat others appropriately,” she said.

The policy details that public officials should maintain the utmost standards of personal integrity, truthfulness, honesty and fairness in carrying out their public duties. The one-page document also details that officials should conduct public deliberations openly in an atmosphere of respect and civility and refrain from abusive conduct or personal attacks upon the character or motives of other public officials, village staff or the public.

The village board attempted in 2008 to revise its code of conduct policy following months of bitterness between the board, mayor and staff that included shouting during proceedings. But the revision did not pass by a majority of the board, who said it was unnecessary.

Triphahn said the board has had issues in the past that brought this to the forefront. The board has since changed.

“While we don't have that issue right now, I think we are safeguarding the integrity and professionalism of the Round Lake village board,” she said.

Board member Don Newby said this document will serve as a reminder to act professionally to one another and to staff members.

“When we took the oath of office, we swore to all those things. It is a reminder. If we set the standard, others will follow,” he said.