§ 2-50. Political activity.

Limitations on the political activities of City officials and employees are imposed by state law, the City Charter, and City personnel rules and are incorporated into this provision by reference. In addition, the following ethical restrictions apply:

(1)

Influencing subordinates. A City official or employee shall not, directly or indirectly, induce or attempt to induce any City subordinate of the official or employee:

a.

To participate in an election campaign, contribute to a candidate or political committee, or engage in any other political activity relating to a particular party, candidate, or issue, or

b.

To refrain from engaging in any lawful political activity.

A general statement merely encouraging another person to vote does not violate this rule.

(2)

Paid campaigning. A City official or employee shall not accept any thing of value, directly or indirectly, for political activity relating to an item pending on the ballot, if he or she participated in, or provided advice relating to, the exercise of discretionary authority by a City body that contributed to the development of the ballot item. Any thing of value does not include a meal or other item of nominal value the City official or employee receives in return for providing information on an item pending on the ballot.

(3)

Official vehicles. A City official or employee shall not display or fail to remove campaign materials on any City vehicle under his or her control.

Limitations on the use of public property and resources for political purposes are imposed by section 2-49 (Public property and resources).

(Ord. No. 2013-05-09-0317, § 2(Att. B), 5-9-13)