Members serving in local government may leverage their expertise to serve as a consultant or engage in other paid outside employment if the activity does not create a conflict with their official position or prevent them from effectively carrying out all aspects of their full-time, permanent position. Members should obtain prior approval from the organization, comply with any internal regulations and/or state laws regarding outside employment, ensure no public resources are used for private employment, and be clear and accurate in taking vacation or other leave as appropriate.

For members serving as a local government manager, there is the added consideration significant absences may create the appearance your focus and full attention is no longer on your employing organization and its best interest so a mindful approach is necessary. 

Applicable Tenets and Guidelines

Tenet 3. Demonstrate by word and action the highest standards of ethical conduct and integrity in all public, professional, and personal relationships in order that the member may merit the trust and respect of the elected and appointed officials, employees, and the public.

Guideline on Public Confidence.  Members should conduct themselves so as to maintain public confidence in their position and profession, the integrity of their local government, and in their responsibility to uphold the public trust.

Tenet 12.  Public office is a public trust.  A member shall not leverage his or her position for personal gain or benefit.

GUIDELINES

Private Employment.  Members should not engage in, solicit, negotiate for, or promise to accept private employment, nor should they render services for private interests or conduct a private business when such employment, service, or business creates a conflict with or impairs the proper discharge of their official duties.

Teaching, lecturing, writing, or consulting are typical activities that may not involve conflict of interest, or impair the proper discharge of their official duties. Prior notification of the appointing authority is appropriate in all cases of outside employment.

Representation.  Members should not represent any outside interest before any agency, whether public or private, except with the authorization of or at the direction of the appointing authority they serve.