Too bad that Bob Sloan, who is generally thoughtful about this issue, didn't do a bit more research before making his statement. The Code, written by members NOT LAWYERS, connects the mission to the job. Its the foundation that inspires and guides their conduct every day in a countless number of decisions they make. As educated committed professionals we can't subscribe to something that doesn't fit on the back of a card? I don't believe it but if you want to get it to the elevator speech here goes: "We commit to deliver fair, equitable and efficient services in a transparent way to the community we serve. We will respect and promote our Democracy and stay out of politics. We will seek no favor. We act with integrity in our personal and professional conduct to merit the trust of those we serve. We will treat out employees, elected officials and residents with respect. We are building communities that will outlast us." Is that too hard to remember?

When I saw this item on the ICMA Twitter feed, I tweeted a pretty strong response to Governing.com that thousands of people follow the Code every day, and that we don't need a shortcut to be ethical. Governing.com then contacted me and invited me to respond to the column! I am glad to have had the opportunity to do so. Feel free to let me know what you think.

Link: http://www.governing.com/blogs/view/length-public-ethics-codes.html

I think the code itself is fine. With that said, it is my opinion that the guidelines often go beyond what the actual code requires, and really should not be included in the same document as the code itself. I would rather see the guidelines, with examples of how it has been enforced as a different document updated annually showing the application of the code.

Too long? With the myriad of issues managers face on a daily basis, a comprehensive code of ethics should be detailed and length has no bearing. The implication thaat length = inability to remember is an insult to the membership and our committment to the code.

I believe the ICMA Code of Ethics is very well written and is not difficult to follow if you take the time to not only read but understand the ethical basis behind the code. Like anything else, if you do not use the code and apply it on a constant basis, you will forget the tenants. I think I can speak for others when I say I consciously consider the code on a daily basis and it is very important for all public servants in the decision-making process. I do not feel "shortening" the code will make it easier to follow, but rather will make it less useful.

The code of ethics is straightforward and serves as a pretty good compass to navigate governance issues. It seems to me that the goal is good governance and that is characterized by honesty, accountability, transparency, and inclusion. I have found myself working these last few years in environemnts characterized by an absence of ethics. It corrodes institutions, corrupts bureaucracies, deters investment, and undermines the legitimacy of government. Be thankful that you discuss the length of a code of ethics rather than suffer from and bemoan the absence of ethical behavior.