Title
An Ordinance Amending Multiple Sections Of Article 3 (Code Of Ethics) Of Chapter 1 (Administration, Personnel And Finance) Of The Code Of The City Of Colorado Springs 2001, As Amended, Pertaining To The Code Of Ethics
Presenter:
Brian Risley, President Pro Tem, Councilmember At Large
Carly Hoff, Senior Legislative Analyst
Body
Summary:
The ordinance updates several sections of the City’s Code of Ethics to clarify definitions, refine sanctions, and establish explicit rules governing elected officials’ use of City resources. The amendments directly address issues identified in a 2026 City Auditor review concerning the use of City funded security and City owned vehicles.
Background:
In March 2026, the Office of the City Auditor released Report 26‑03 following a Fraud, Waste, and Abuse Hotline complaint involving an elected official. The report examined allegations related to the use of City funded security personnel and a City owned vehicle for personal purposes. While the review found that personal stops made during official travel were incidental and that no standalone personal errands were directed, it confirmed that a City owned vehicle had been used by an elected official’s spouse for personal mileage, which was later reported for IRS purposes.
The Audit Committee concluded that the City lacks clear, enforceable policies governing elected officials’ use of City resources, including police security details and City vehicles. To promote transparency, accountability, and consistent governance, the Committee strongly recommended that City Council adopt clearer standards. This ordinance implements those recommendations by updating definitions, clarifying sanctions, and establishing explicit rules for the use of City funded security and City-owned vehicles by elected officials and their immediate family members.
Previous Council Action:
N/A
Financial Implications:
N/A
City Council Appointed Board/Commission/Committee Recommendation:
The Audit Committee recommended the establishment of clear and enforceable policies governing elected officials’ use of City resources, including police detail and City vehicles.
Stakeholder Process:
N/A
Alternatives:
N/A
Recommended Action
Proposed Motion:
Adopt an Ordinance Amending Multiple Sections Of Article 3 (Code Of Ethics) Of Chapter 1 (Administration, Personnel And Finance) Of The Code Of The City Of Colorado Springs 2001, As Amended, Pertaining To The Code Of Ethics
Summary of Ordinance Language
An Ordinance Amending Multiple Sections Of Article 3 (Code Of Ethics) Of Chapter 1 (Administration, Personnel And Finance) Of The Code Of The City Of Colorado Springs 2001, As Amended, Pertaining To The Code Of Ethics
The ordinance updates several sections of the City’s Code of Ethics to clarify definitions, refine sanctions, and establish explicit rules governing elected officials’ use of City resources.