Resolution No. 3681, as amended
The Port of Seattle Commission adopted a revised Code of Ethics on May 14, 2013. This Code of Ethics is part of a comprehensive ethics program at the port. The Code is intended to provide guidance in the event of conflicts between a commissioner's personal or professional interests and the interests of the port. It is not to be interpreted as comprehensive in scope addressing every perceived conflict or issue; rather, it should be viewed as a framework which commissioners and the public can apply to particular circumstances.
It is assumed and expected that a commissioner will act in accordance with applicable law, and will strive to avoid any appearance of impropriety in the conduct of his/her office. Ultimately, ethics for port commissioners are a matter of personal honesty, common sense, and good judgment. Neither this, nor any other code, can be an adequate substitute for those attributes.
Commissioners are elected officials entrusted with public confidence, and ultimately questions involving a commissioner's behavior are a matter to be judged by the electorate.
Ethics Board
The Code of Ethics for Port Commissioners instituted a Board of Ethics in 2013. The board provides guidance on factual situations submitted by Port Commissioners and conducts initial consideration of complaints of violation of the Commission Code of Ethics. The Commission appoints three board members, none of whom may be a Commissioner or Port employee.
The Board meets on an as-needed basis. Meetings are subject to the requirements of Washington’s Open Public Meetings Act, Chapter 42.30 RCW. Notices are posted on this page. If no meeting is currently scheduled, the notice for the most recent meeting will be provided.
Call the Ethics and Compliance Hotline if you see or suspect illegal activity.
