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GENERAL PRINCIPLES UNDERLYING THE CODE OF ETHICS <br />• The stability and proper operation of democratic representative government depends <br />upon public confidence in the integrity of the government, and upon responsible <br />exercise of the trust conferred by the people upon their elected officials. <br />• Governmental decisions and policy must be made and implemented through proper <br />channels and processes of the governmental structure. <br />• Board members must be able to act in a manner that maintains their integrity and <br />independence, yet is responsive to the interests and needs of those they represent. <br />• Board members must always remain aware that at various times they play different <br />roles: <br />• As advocates, who- strive to advance the legitimate needs of their citizens and <br />residents, <br />• As legislators, who balance the public interest and private rights in considering <br />and enacting ordinances, orders, and resolutions, and <br />• As fair and impartial decision-makers, when making .quasi judicial and <br />administrative determinations. <br />Board members must know how to distinguish among these roles, to determine when <br />each role is appropriate, and to act accordingly. <br />• Board members must be aware of their obligation to conform their behavior to <br />standards of ethical conduct that warrant the trust of .their constituents. Each official <br />must find within his or her own conscience the touchstone by which to determine what <br />conduct is appropriate. <br />