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Cayce council to research Dignity Index; public commenter urges licensing review
Summary
On July 22, Cayce City Council directed staff to research trademark and licensing requirements before adopting the Dignity Index as a communications tool and discussed a possible civility pledge to be recited before meetings. A public commenter asked that any licensing or partnership be secured before formal adoption.
Cayce City Council on July 22 directed staff to investigate trademark and licensing requirements related to the Dignity Index, a nonpartisan communications tool aimed at reducing contempt and promoting respectful dialogue.
"Mr. Salak noted that Council had previously discussed initiatives such as a civility pledge and a code of conduct and expressed support for efforts that promote civility, respect, and professionalism," public commenter Chip Salak told the council during the public comment period. Salak urged Council to pursue any necessary licensing or partnership agreements before taking action on the Index.
City Manager Michael Conley told council members that staff would continue working with the City Attorney to clarify trademark and licensing requirements before recommending public‑facing use of the Index. "Staff would continue working with the City Attorney to obtain clarification on those requirements and provide additional information to Council," Conley said.
Council members expressed broad support for the underlying goal of promoting civility but emphasized interest in reviewing alternatives, including the Municipal Association of South Carolina's civility pledge. Council Member Byron Thomas suggested that, regardless of the final tool chosen, the council consider "formally reciting a civility pledge or statement of conduct prior to Council meetings" to demonstrate commitment to respectful dialogue.
Next steps: staff will report back with legal guidance on licensing and a comparison of options for a civility or conduct statement before Council considers formal adoption.
