AOP 242 Ethics Code Overview

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary focus of ethics in the context of public service?

It involves fairness and duty to the general public (correct)

Maximizing profit for city officials

Ensuring personal gains for elected officials

Promoting competitive advantages in public affairs

Which of the following best summarizes the requirements of the Ethics Code?

Standards of honesty, integrity, impartiality, and conduct (correct)

Freedom from all governmental oversight

Ability to create laws without public input

Mandates exclusively for elected officials only

What is a major role of ethical rules in public service according to the Ethics Code?

To promote personal agendas of officials

To support equal treatment in public affairs (correct)

To eliminate public accountability for actions

To allow selective enforcement of rules

Who does the term 'City Official' refer to in the context of the Ethics Code?

In short, anyone who works for or on behalf of the city of Tulsa. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following actions is prohibited for City officials under the Ethics Code?

Engaging in financial transactions based on non-public information (B) Signup and view all the answers

If a City official believes there may be a conflict of interest, what is the first step they should take?

Disclose the conflict to the appropriate authority (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which statement correctly reflects the confidentiality of hotline reports?

Inquiries to the hotline are kept confidential and anonymous (A) Signup and view all the answers

What must City officials do if a conflict involves a business agreement with the City?

File a written statement with the City Clerk (A) Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for investigating formal complaints against City employees?

The appropriate appointing authority will investigate (C) Signup and view all the answers

If an employee is uncertain about a potential conflict of interest, who should they contact for advice?

His or her manager, supervisor or appropriate appointing authority. Also may inquire to The Director of Human Resources and the City attorney (A) Signup and view all the answers

According to the Ethics Code, what must officials refrain from if they have a disclosed conflict of interest?

Involvement relating to the matter in question (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following represents a potential conflict of interest for a City official?

Having a financial interest in a company that contracts with the City (B) Signup and view all the answers

What does the Ethics Code imply regarding conflicts of interest for City officials?

The possibility of a conflict and not the actual existence of a conflict shall govern (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum share ownership in a company for a City official to have a defined financial interest?

Five percent (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which role does NOT typically constitute a conflict of interest under the Ethics Code?

City official with stock shares under $5,000 (C) Signup and view all the answers

What standard of behavior is expected from City officials in their relationships?

Highest standards of honor and integrity, impartiality and conduct (B) Signup and view all the answers

Under what conditions can City officials borrow City resources?

City office shall not, without prior authorization, borrow, or utilize city of Tulsa facilities, equipment or resources for personal use or gain. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of openness and transparency in government as per the Ethics Code?

To allow citizens to make informed judgements and to hold city officials and employees accountable (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is a City official's responsibility if they choose to delegate work?

Must ensure the work is carried out efficiently and ethically (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT considered direct interference with the Ethics Code?

Serving on the board of a local charity (C) Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Ethics Code Overview

Ethics is the study of morality, evaluating human actions and ensuring fairness in public service.
The Ethics Code mandates high standards of honesty, integrity, impartiality, and conduct for public officials to maintain public trust.
"City Official" includes all elected officials, officers, employees, and appointees associated with the City of Tulsa.

Complaints and Reporting

Formal complaints alleging Ethics Code violations must be submitted in writing to the Mayor or designated representative.
The City Auditor's office operates an Ethics Hotline for anonymous reporting of ethics violations, including fraud and conflicts of interest.
All reports are treated confidentially, adhering to the Oklahoma Open Records Act.

Compliance with Laws and Conflict of Interest

City officials must comply with laws promoting equal opportunity and avoid any financial or personal conflicts of interest relating to their official duties.
Officials are prohibited from using confidential information for personal gain or the benefit of others.

Disclosure of Conflicts

Officials suspecting a conflict of interest must disclose it to a supervisor or the City Clerk and abstain from related involvement.
Any business agreement conflict involving personal interests requires a written disclosure to the City Clerk, especially if it pertains to immediate family interests.

Governance and Objectivity

City officials cannot participate in decisions that benefit them personally or financially; potential conflicts, even if not actualized, must be considered.
Financial interest is defined as ownership of 5% or more of a business in which a City official or their immediate family has vested interest exceeding $5,000.

Dedication to Public Trust

Service to the City of Tulsa is viewed as a public trust, requiring adherence to laws, the city charter, and associated policies.
Transparency is crucial for accountability, allowing citizens to evaluate City officials' actions.

Upholding Integrity

City officials must maintain high honor and integrity in both public and private dealings.
Those delegating responsibilities are accountable for ensuring ethical conduct in the execution of duties.

Use of City Resources

City resources, facilities, and equipment are prohibited from personal use without prior authorization.
Officials may not borrow from outside entities in a manner that may conflict with the Ethics Code.

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Description

This quiz explores the essential principles of ethics and the ethical standards that guide public service. It emphasizes the importance of honesty, integrity, and impartiality in human actions and governance. Additionally, the quiz highlights the role of ethics in maintaining fairness and duty to the public.