Henderson City Council approves ethics ordinance

After Josh Reid was hired as Henderson's city attorney in November, the City Council directed him to review the city's ethics policy.

His work on the assignment resulted in a new ethics ordinance, which the council unanimously approved Tuesday.

"I like rules. I like guidelines," Reid said after the meeting. "It shouldn't be a gray area. We didn't have to put in a gift limit, but I like that."

Under the ordinance, city employees may accept no more than $50 in meals or gifts from any entity conducting business with or within the city during a calendar year. The ordinance makes an exception to that rule for city employees who accept tickets or admission to charitable events or fundraisers, as long the department head has given approval.

"It makes people think about what they're doing and be more cautious," Reid said.

Employees are prohibited from soliciting gifts. Penalties for violating the ordinance include job termination.

Contact reporter Carri Geer Thevenot at cgeer@reviewjournal.com or 702-384-8710.