The Board of County Commissioners (BCC) adopted Ordinance 2022-03 AN ORDINANCE ENACTING A SANTA FE COUNTY CODE OF CONDUCT AND REPEALING ORDINANCE NOS. 2010-12 and 2011-9

Declaration of Policy

The proper and effective exercise of the democratic process and of democratic government requires that Elected Officials, Appointed Officials, Employees and Volunteers of Santa Fe County government be independent, impartial and responsible to the people; that decisions of the government and development of policy are made fairly, legally and as the result of a fair and open process; that public office or the pursuit of public office should not be used for personal gain or influence; and that the public have and maintain confidence in the integrity of government.

To assist in attaining these goals, this Ordinance establishes a code of conduct and establishes minimum standards for ethical behavior for all Elected Officials, Appointed Officials, Employees and Volunteers of county government. This Ordinance also establishes the highest guidelines for ethical behavior for all Candidates for elected office , Elected Officials, Appointed Officials, Employees and Volunteers, by setting forth explicit standards of conduct and ethical behavior, explicitly describing acts which are inconsistent with these standards, and by requiring candidates for elected office, Candidates, Elected Officials, Appointed Officials, Employees and Volunteers to disclose personal interests, financial or otherwise, in matters of the County, and to remove themselves from decision-making when such interests exist.

Responsbility of Public Office and Employment

Elected Officials, Appointed Officials, Employees and Volunteers hold office or employment for the benefit of the public. They are bound to uphold the Constitution of the United States and the New Mexico Constitution and the Laws of the State of New Mexico; to observe the highest standards in the exercise of the powers and duties of office or employment; to impartially carry out their duties; to discharge faithfully the duties of office regardless of personal considerations; and to recognize that the public interest must be the prime objective.

Download Ordinance 2022-03 Enacting a Santa Fe County Code of Conduct and Repealing Ordinance Nos. 2010-12 and 2011-9 (PDF)

Download Ordinance 2011-9 Ethics Board Ordinance and Repealing Ordinance 2010-12 (PDF)

Download Ordinance 2010-12 Enacting a Santa Fe County Code of Conduct (PDF)