Title: Importance of Accountability in Local Government
Headings: Importance of Accountability in Local Government
Importance of Accountability in Local Government
Article highlights
The Importance of Ethics in Government Accountability
Ways to Create a Culture of Accountability in Local Government
Values-driven leadership
Ethics training
Written policies and procedures
Independent ethics commission or officer
Accountability audits and assessments
Some states require accountability audits.
Download your copy of the report
How does your organization compare? Get your copy today.

Content: Accountability should be a concern for all local government employees, not just elected officials. Governments won’t be able to fulfill their roles if citizens don’t trust all government employees to make decisions that serve the best interest of the community. Even the appearance of questionable behavior can hurt public trust. Therefore, accountability in local government requires strict standards and procedures to promote ethical behavior. As a report by City Ethics points out: “Because we cannot know the character or motivations of those who manage our communities, and because we cannot know how much their personal obligations affect their decisions, we can judge them, and hold them accountable, only by their actions and their relationships as they appear on their face. “In other words, in government ethics, appearances are what matters most. Motivations, feelings, and character are irrelevant.” Ways to Create a Culture of Accountability in Local Government
Values-driven leadership
Integrity and accountability must be deeply ingrained in the culture of local government. This starts at the top.