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Council adopts code of conduct for elected and appointed officials after contentious debate, 3-2 vote
Summary
After heated debate that split the dais, the Gardena City Council voted 3–2 to adopt a citywide code of conduct for elected and appointed officials. Supporters said it clarifies expectations and onboarding; critics said the draft is vague and risks chilling political speech.
The Gardena City Council on Tuesday adopted a code of conduct (Resolution No. 66-95) that applies to elected officials and appointed commission and board members, passing the measure 3–2 after a prolonged, often contentious discussion.
Mayor Tasha Serta moved adoption and Mayor Pro Tem Rodney Tanaka seconded. The final roll call was: Serta — yes; Tanaka — yes; Councilmember Mark E. Henderson — yes; Councilmember Francis — no; Councilmember Love — no. Proponents argued the code provides consistent expectations for behavior, supplements existing laws such as the Brown Act and the Political Reform Act, and clarifies onboarding for new officeholders. Henderson said a formal code…
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