Does the City of Tarpon Springs Need an Ethics Policy?

Does the city of Tarpon Springs need an ethics policy?

Officials are discussing the creation such a code of ethics, which would also establish procedures for reporting fraud through a hotline for whistle-blowers, according to a recent Tampa Bay Times story. The idea was recommended as part of an internal audit earlier this year, according to the report.

The ethics policy also "reiterates state rules on gifts, conflict of interest, abuse of power and city-owned assets," the Times article says.

The hotline would cost about $2,000 in initial startup fees, then about $2,000 per year. Officials say such a hotline and a code of ethics could eventually save the city money and would be a proactive way of maintaining high standards of trust, honesty, integrity and public confidence.

The topic is likely to come up at the commissioners' next meeting Tuesday, the Times reports.

We want to hear from our readers: Do you think this policy is a good idea? Do you believe it will help city officials stay honest? Could it expose fraud and help the city save money? Post a comment below and join the discussion.