Milton Earns "City of Ethics" Designation

Voluntary program promotes ethical principals, maintaining public trust

Milton was among 14 Georgia cities – and the state's newest city – to receive the "Certified City of Ethics" designation at the Georgia Municipal Association's Annual Convention in Savannah June 26. There are now 189 cities in Georgia which have received the designation.The voluntary program, developed by a panel of business and government leaders, encourages cities to adopt and adhere to a set of key ethical principles and a comprehensive model ethics ordinance. The ordinance guides city officials' conduct in areas such as financial disclosures, conflicts of interests and outside employment. The ordinance also contains strong penalty provisions - including public reprimands, fines and removal from office - for city officials who violate the ordinance. “Milton is honored and excited to have earned the designation as a ‘Certified City of Ethics’ from the Georgia Municipal Association,” said City Manager Aaron Bovos. “This initiative was originally sponsored by Council Member Neal O’Brien and supported by the entire Council and staff. We look forward to the benefits the program has to offer.”"The 'City of Ethics' program recognizes cities that make a tangible commitment to ethical conduct," said GMA Executive Director Jim Higdon. "We now have nearly 200 cities that have proven their commitment to honest, ethical government by adopting strong ethics ordinances. I am extremely pleased that cities have taken the lead on earning and maintaining the public's trust in government."A panel of attorneys reviewed the ordinances to determine if they comply with the GMA criteria. The cities received a plaque and are now authorized by GMA to use a "Certified City of Ethics" logo on city stationery, road signs, city vehicles and for other uses.