![Headshot of author Marc Ott](/sites/default/files/styles/lead_image/public/2021-07/Marc_Ott-3654-Edit-2_lead_image.jpg?itok=VABTLetg)
The focus must be on serving as a trusted source of information to help inform public action.
![Photo of framed Code of Ethics](/sites/default/files/styles/medium/public/2021-08/framed%20CoE%20lead%20image-%20use%20this%20for%20public%20censures.png?itok=0AGJ47df)
Given the profession’s commitment to accountability, ensuring that the process for enforcing the Code of Ethics is clear and understood is important.
![Photo of Marc Ott along with photo of man being vaccinated](/sites/default/files/styles/medium/public/2021-07/PM%20Magazine%20-%20Marc%20Ott%20image%20template.jpg?itok=VrtS_FTC)
The possibilities for innovation exist across every aspect of local government operations
![An image of people having a discussion in an office](/sites/default/files/styles/medium/public/2021-07/AdobeStock_421909901.jpg?itok=7SV3bbRL)
The crucial functions of being second in command
![Image of post-its](/sites/default/files/styles/medium/public/2021-07/AdobeStock_298798448.jpeg?itok=KKhyLNMx)
The right culture lifts people up, expands the capacity of the workforce to execute new challenges, and enhances the organization’s performance.
![Image with text: Welcome Ambassador Committee 10 Years 2011-2021](/sites/default/files/styles/medium/public/2021-07/welcome%20ambassadors%20for%20web%20article%203.jpg?itok=YXLnkFCm)
The personal side of a professional association
![Illustration of a man ascending stairs](/sites/default/files/styles/medium/public/2021-07/AdobeStock_395727921.jpg?itok=5mDF31Ct)
Level 6 Governance provides a model for high operational performance
![Photo of Stockton police officers in the community](/sites/default/files/styles/medium/public/2021-07/SPD_1_Color.jpg?itok=g2cuWgtH)
With a focus on mutual accountability, Stockton, California, has created a review board with key members of the local government and community.
![Illustratio of red elephant and blue donkey, representing U.S. political parties](/sites/default/files/styles/medium/public/2021-07/Feature%202%20web.jpg?itok=Ol3C40VH)
Sometimes inaction is appropriate