HomeMy WebLinkAbout2013-02-27 CODE OF CONDUCT & ETHICSMINUTES OF THE SPECIAL MEETING OF THE
CODE OF CONDUCT AND ETHICS
COUNCIL COMMITTEE
FEBRUARY 27, 2013
Meeting Convened at City Hall, 2 "d Floor, 20 Civic Center Plaza Santa Ana, CA at 4;12 p.m.
In attendance were Committee Members Sal Tinajero and Angelica Amezcua, and Staff
members Sonia Carvalho, City Attorney and Maria D. Huizar, Clerk of the Council.
PUBLIC COMMENTS — None
AGENDA ITEMS
ANNUAL REVIEW OF CODE OF CONDUCT
Chair Tinajero noted that section #4 of Code of Conduct is on Responsibility; need to protect
integrity of process; proposed email sent to all members of the City Council as to the illegal
release of closed session information. City Attorney indicated that such communication had
already been sent; individuals are held accountable; will bring to their attention when a
perceived violation occurred; challenge with value based policy is that it is only aspirational
with no penalties or sanctions. Chair Tinajero noted that all need to adhere to the values,
especially members on this committee.
2. DISCUSS CITY COUNCIL POLICY AS IT RELATES TO BROWN ACT VIOLATIONS AND
SANCTIONS
City Attorney Carvalho noted that it would be impossible to investigate all accusations, but if
Council gave direction she would be required to review. Also, explained injunctive relief
process which is contempt of court if violate judge's decision; San Jose has sample policy
that can be considered in Santa Ana. Member Amezcua asked that matter be agendized for
further discussion at the May meeting; need to hold all accountable. City Attorney Carvalho
indicated that document can be prepared as a resolution for City Council consideration.
Chair Tinajero asked that material be prepared in a timely fashion and allow for transparent
process; also asked City Attorney to report on recent allegations of wrongdoing. City
Attorney reported that allegation of exceeding campaign contribution limits, independent
committee contributions are not subject to City requirements; and other allegation of potential
conflict of interest, matter has been referred to appropriate agency for review.
3. COMMITTEE MEMBER COMMENTS — None
ADJOURNED — 4:39 P.M.
Maria D. Huizar
Clerk of the Council
Minutes of the Code of Conduct and Ethics Committee Page 1
February 27, 2013