Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Ethics Reform topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Parker council unanimously adopts overhauled code of ethics with new advisory and enforcement processes
Summary
Parker Town Council unanimously approved Ordinance No. 1.61 0.2 on May 4, 2026, repealing and replacing Chapter 2.05 of the municipal code to clarify gift rules, ban improper use of the town's name/logo, add advisory opinions and an independent ethics counsel, and outline investigation and penalty procedures.
The Parker Town Council unanimously adopted a rewritten code of ethics (Ordinance No. 1.61 0.2) during its May 4 meeting, replacing a version first drafted in 1994 and adding new guidance and enforcement procedures for elected officials and board members.
Kelsey Hall, the ordinance presenter, told the council the update consolidates existing gift rules, removes outdated provisions, and provides clearer guidance on the use of the town name and logo. "We decided to codify the parts of the resolution that make sense so that everyone can find it," Hall said, adding the rewrite also creates a separate code of conduct document to explain common campaign‑related and interpersonal situations.
The ordinance establishes a process for advisory opinions from the town attorney (and outside counsel when needed); Hall said that following an advisory opinion in good faith would protect a member from being found to have violated the code. The rewrite also proposes appointing an independent ethics counsel to investigate and prosecute alleged violations and spells out hearing procedures, burdens of proof, discovery rules and potential dismissals.
Penalties listed in the ordinance include formal censure by resolution, fines when a violation produced pecuniary gain, removal from committees or official public duties, and refusal to pay for optional memberships. Hall said these changes are meant to offer "greater clarity" rather than lower standards.
Council members asked how the code applies to people who are campaigning but not yet elected. Hall responded that the ordinance applies to sitting council members, the mayor and board/commission members and does not rewrite state campaign‑law obligations for unaffiliated candidates. Councilmember Brandy emphasized the intent was not to "take away the fun" from young people and supported clarity so staff and the public understand the rules.
Councilmember Brandy moved to approve the ordinance on second reading; the motion was seconded and carried by unanimous voice vote.
The new code replaces the older chapter and will be available as the town’s primary guidance for elected officials and appointed members going forward.
