Lloydminster council recently made minor changes to its code of ethics bylaw while adding additional clarity.
Council undertakes bylaw reviews every four years.
Read more: Lloydminster council reappoints auditors
“We are legislated to keep these under review based on our records management bylaw,” said Shannon Rowan, interim city clerk. “We review bylaws every four years and policies every three years to make sure there’s no gaps (or) conflicting legislation.”
Council gave the bylaw its final two readings at the July 21 regular council meeting. The code of ethics bylaw sets out rules and expectations for council to follow.
“I think this is one of the items for our taxpayers, residents. (It) gives some direction as to how council operates and rules we operate within as elected officials,” said Mayor Gerald Aalbers. “It’s great to see it updated from the city clerk’s office and the team at legislative services.
“I think it speaks really well to a clear and concise presentation.”
Section 10.3 was added to the bylaw for clarification and reads: “Given members of Council’s range of employment authority and influence, no Relative of a member of Council will be considered for employment with the City. Summer students and preexisting employees will be exempt from this requirement.”
Another updated portion of the bylaw was an increase to the value of gifts council is allowed to accept. The value of gift has to be under $350. Anything over must be provided to the city manager where they “shall dispose of the gift at their sole discretion.”
Read more: Lloydminster appoints interim city clerk after resignation
