Statement of Purpose

The Fremont County Association of Governments (FCAG) is committed to the highest standards of ethical conduct, professionalism, transparency, and public service. As a regional collaborative governing body, FCAG recognizes its responsibility to model exemplary governance practices and to serve as a standard of conduct for partner jurisdictions and public entities throughout Fremont County.

This Code of Conduct establishes clear expectations for behavior and decision-making to promote public trust, effective governance, and respectful collaboration. It is intended to guide the actions of all FCAG Board Members, Officers, committee members, and individuals acting in any official capacity on behalf of FCAG.

Guiding Principles

All individuals subject to this Code of Conduct shall uphold the following principles:

• Stewardship of public trust and resources
• Integrity in decision-making and representation
• Accountability to member governments and the public
• Transparency in process and communication
• Respect for diverse perspectives and jurisdictions
• Commitment to collaborative regional leadership

Standards of Professional Conduct

Board Members and representatives shall:

• Conduct themselves in a manner that reflects credit upon FCAG and its member jurisdictions
• Maintain professionalism in all meetings, correspondence, and public interactions
• Engage in civil, constructive, and respectful discourse
• Encourage full and fair participation by all members
• Address disagreements on the merits of issues rather than through personal criticism
• Refrain from conduct that is disruptive, intimidating, or inconsistent with the dignity of public office

FCAG affirms that principled disagreement strengthens governance when conducted with respect and professionalism.

Ethical Responsibilities and Integrity

Individuals subject to this Code shall:

• Place the interests of FCAG and the public above personal, political, or organizational gain
• Avoid actions that create actual conflicts of interest or the appearance of impropriety
• Act with honesty and impartiality in all official matters
• Exercise independent judgment consistent with law and policy
• Refrain from using their position to secure special privileges or advantages

Conflicts of Interest

All Board Members and representatives shall comply fully with applicable Wyoming conflict-of-interest statutes and any FCAG conflict-of-interest policies.

When a potential conflict exists, the individual shall:

• Disclose the nature of the conflict promptly and on the public record when required
• Follow all applicable procedures for recusal
• Refrain from participation in discussion, deliberation, or voting on the matter, as required by law or policy

The obligation to avoid conflicts extends to circumstances that may reasonably be perceived by the public as compromising impartiality.

Confidentiality and Appropriate Use of Information

Individuals subject to this Code shall:

• Protect confidential, privileged, or non-public information obtained through FCAG service
• Use such information solely for legitimate FCAG purposes
• Refrain from disclosing confidential information except as authorized by law or policy
• Exercise care to ensure sensitive information is handled in a manner consistent with legal and ethical obligations

Public representation and Communications

In communications with the public, partner entities, or the media:

• Individuals shall clearly distinguish between personal views and official FCAG positions
• Only authorized individuals may speak on behalf of FCAG in an official capacity
• Public statements shall be accurate, responsible, and consistent with adopted FCAG actions and policies
• Board Members shall avoid statements that misrepresent FCAG decisions or undermine public confidence in the organization

Use of Authority and Public Resources

FCAG authority, resources, and facilities shall be used exclusively for legitimate FCAG purposes. Individuals shall not:

• Use their position to advance personal, political, or organizational interests
• Direct staff to perform tasks unrelated to FCAG business
• Utilize FCAG resources for private benefit
• Engage in conduct that may reasonably be perceived as an improper use of public assets

Respectful, Inclusive, and Professional Environment

FCAG is committed to maintaining an environment that reflects the highest standards of respect, inclusion, and professionalism.

Accordingly:

• Discrimination, harassment, retaliation, or abusive conduct is inconsistent with FCAG values and will not be tolerated
• All individuals shall treat colleagues, staff, and members of the public with dignity and respect
• Conduct that undermines a safe, professional, and collaborative environment is prohibited

Compliance with Laws, Policies, and Governing Documents

All individuals subject to this Code shall comply with:

• Applicable federal, state, and local laws
• Wyoming open meetings and public records requirements
• FCAG bylaws, policies, and procedures
• Ethical standards applicable to public officials and governing bodies

Reporting and Addressing Concerns

Concerns regarding potential violations of this Code of Conduct may be reported to:

• The FCAG Board Chair
• The FCAG Director
• Appropriate legal counsel or oversight authorities, as required by law

FCAG is committed to addressing concerns in a fair, timely, and lawful manner, consistent with due process and applicable governance procedures.

Enforcement and Accountability

Violations of this Code of Conduct may result in appropriate action consistent with FCAG bylaws and applicable law. Such actions may include, but are not limited to:

• Formal warning or reprimand
• Public censure
• Removal from committee or leadership assignments
• Other actions authorized under applicable governing authority

Nothing in this Code shall be interpreted to limit statutory or legal remedies or obligations.

Leadership Commitment

Service with the Fremont County Association of Governments carries with it a responsibility to exemplify the highest standards of public service. By serving FCAG, Board Members and representatives affirm their commitment to uphold this Code of Conduct and to conduct themselves in a manner that strengthens public confidence, advances regional collaboration, and reflects the dignity and responsibility of public office.