Code of Ethics – Municipal Members

The purpose of the California Society of Municipal Finance Officers is to improve the knowledge, skills, and performance of individuals responsible for municipal and other local government fiscal policy and management. The organization reinforces the professionalism in financial management and provides a method for meeting the challenges of change and solving problems relating to government finance.

To further these objectives, members are enjoined to adhere to legal, moral and professional standards of conduct. The ethical principles set forth in this code shall govern the conduct of the Municipal members of the California Society of Municipal Finance Officers who shall:

1. Demonstrate and be dedicated to the highest ideals of honor and integrity in all public and personal relationships to merit the respect and confidence of the elected officials, other public officials, employees and the public.
2. Recognize and be accountable for their responsibilities as public officials; be sensitive and responsive to the rights of the public.
3. Exercise prudence and integrity in the management of funds in their custody and in all financial transactions.
4. Maintain their own competence, enhance the competence of their colleagues and staff members, and provide encouragement to those seeking to enter the field of government finance.
5. Seek excellence in the public service; be well informed and well prepared to exercise public authority.
6. Demonstrate professional integrity in the issuance and management of information; prepare and present statements and financial information fairly, in accordance with law and generally accepted practices and guidelines.
7. Respect and protect privileged information; be sensitive and responsive to inquiries from the public and the media within the framework of local government policy.
8. Act with honor, integrity and virtue in all professional relationships; respect the rights of their colleagues and other public officials with whom they work and associate.
9. Handle all matters of personnel within the scope of their authority on the basis of merit so that fairness and impartiality govern their decisions.
10. Seek no favor or accept any personal gain which would influence, or appear to influence, the conduct of their official duties.
11. Protect the public trust, avoid even the appearance of impropriety, and safeguard the integrity of the government they serve.

The California Society of Municipal Finance Officers recognizes three classifications of membership: Municipal, Other Government, and Commercial members. (Additional classifications may be authorized by the board of directors under the Other Government classification.)  This Code of Ethics specifically addresses the conduct of those who hold Municipal membership. The Society’s Commercial and Other Government members are encouraged to honor and respect this Code as well as the Code of Ethics for Commercial Members.

Code of Ethics – Commercial Members

The purpose of the California Society of Municipal Finance Officers (CSMFO) is to improve the knowledge, skills, and performance for all individuals involved in municipal and other local government fiscal policy and management within the State. Commercial members play a significant role in supporting California local government agencies and their staff, providing a variety of services and significant consulting expertise.
It is imperative that all Commercial Members adhere to professional standards of conduct as well as all laws and applicable rules. Specifically, Commercial Members shall:

1. Understand and adhere to all CSMFO rules and bylaws as well as the principles of the Municipal Members Code of Ethics, with a focus on honor and professional integrity in working with local agencies, their staff, and all elected/appointed officials. 
2. Demonstrate mutual respect and integrity. Adhere to all rules and regulations that pertain to members area of commerce, such as accounting rules of conduct, Municipal Advisor (MA) regulations, and banking regulations. 
3. Not engage in any  conduct whereby Commercial members pay for activity or exposure that is not otherwise disclosed nor monopolize their area of expertise, but rather strive to ensure trust and fairness, and avoid any appearances of impropriety.  
4. Respect and protect all privileged or sensitive data.
5. Work to protect the public trust, safeguarding the local agencies and communities they serve.