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Source: Minneapolis Code of Ordinances CHAPTER 15. ETHICS IN GOVERNMENT* 15.10. Code of ethics; preamble. Minneapolis government exists to serve the people of Minneapolis. In order to do so effectively, the people must have confidence and trust in the integrity of their city government. They deserve elected and appointed officials, city employees and volunteers who maintain the highest ethical principles and avoid misconduct and conflicts of interest, apparent or real. Effective democracy depends on a government that is fair, ethical and accountable to the people it serves. This comprehensive code of ethics provides an ethical guide and specific rules that reflect the ethical values of our city. It is both inspirational and a basis for disciplinary action. The ethical aspirations that begin each section represent the inspirational objectives toward which each local official and employee should strive. Except for the ethical aspirations set forth in 15.20, 15.130, 15.180, the code of ethics defines levels of conduct below which no local official or employee can fall without being subject to disciplinary action. The code of ethics is designed to promote high ethical standards and conduct, and to foster a healthy ethical culture throughout city government. It is a touchstone for all who work with and for the city to assist them in fulfilling their responsibilities to the people of Minneapolis. (2003- Or-034, S 1,3-21-03) ARTICLE I. TRUST 15.20. Ethical aspiration. We put the public interest ahead of our own personal advancement and financial interests. We disclose conflicts of interest and refrain from participating in decisions where we have a financial interest. We avoid actions that might impair independence of judgment or give the appearance of impropriety or a conflict of interest. We do not use our positions to gain privileges or special treatment and do not use public property or personnel for private or personal purposes. (2003-0r-034, 9 1,3-21-03) 15.30. Fiduciary duty. In the performance of their official duties, local officials and employees shall act for the benefit of the city. (2003-0r-034, 9 1, 3-21-03) 15.40. Conflicts of interest. (a) Definition of conflicts of interest. A local official or employee, whether paid or unpaid, shall avoid any situation that might give rise to a conflict of interest. A conflict of interest is present when, in the discharge of official duties, a local official or employee participates in a governmental decision, action or transaction in which he or she has a financial interest, except when that financial interest is no greater than that of another member of his or her business classification, profession or occupation. A financial interest is any interest, including loans, which shall yield, directly or indirectly, a monetary or other material benefit to the local official or employee (other than monetary or material benefits authorized by the city). A financial interest of a local official's or employee's employer (other than the City of Minneapolis), his or her associated business, or his or her spouse, domestic partner, or dependent, and their employers or associated businesses shall also be considered a financial interest of the local official or employee. The following assets shall not be considered a financial interest for purposes of this section: (1) Ownership of shares in a diversified mutual fund. (2) Membership in a pension plan or employee benefit plan. (3) Ownership of bonds or publicly traded securities with a market value of less than