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DISCUSSION WITH POSSIBLE RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL TO INITIATE AN ETHICS COMMISSION
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RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the Legislation and Environmental Committee discuss a proposed ordinance to initiate an Ethics Commission and recommend it to the City Council for Consideration.
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Summary
Consistent with previously received Committee direction, Staff has reviewed the existing Ethics Commission policies of both San Francisco and Sacramento. This report provides the information and the draft ordinance previously requested to create an Ethics Commission.
DISCUSSION
Background
In accordance with the 2023-2024 San Joaquin County Civil Grand Jury recommendation, at its July 17, 2024, meeting, the Legislation and Environmental Committee, received information regarding policies to strengthen election transparency and ethics. During the September 18, 2024, Legislation and Environmental Committee meeting staff presented information requested by the Committee regarding ethics commissions and political consultant reporting. The Committee’s determination was to take no further action, citing financial constraints.
At the July 27, 2026, Legislation and Environmental Committee meeting, it was discussed that Sacramento now has an Ethics Commission that may be used to create a hybrid model with the preferred elements from San Francisco’s Ethics Commission. Committee members directed staff to bring back relevant information to create an Ethics Commission.
Present Situation
In accordance with Committee direction, the proposed ordinance, included as Attachment A, establishing an Ethics Commission has been brought for the Committee’s consideration and possible recommendation to the City Council (Attachment A).
Attachment A - Stockton Ethics Commission Ordinance