As commissioners, we recognize that the trust placed in us by the people we serve is both an honor and a responsibility. To uphold that trust, we commit ourselves to a set of guiding principles that reflect integrity, transparency, and service to the public good.
Truth: We pledge to be honest in every word, action, and decision. Truth is the foundation of good governance. We will seek facts before forming opinions, communicate openly with our colleagues and constituents, and ensure that the information we share is accurate and complete. Even when truth is inconvenient or difficult, we will not compromise it for personal or political gain.
Fairness: Every individual deserves to be treated with respect, equality, and impartiality. We will approach every issue and decision with an open mind, free from bias or favoritism. Fairness means listening to all sides, considering the impact of our choices on the entire community, and striving for outcomes that serve the greater good rather than any single interest.
Accountability: We hold ourselves accountable for our actions, words, and the results of our decisions. We will own our mistakes, learn from them, and remain answerable to the people we represent. Accountability builds credibility – and without it, trust cannot endure.
Transparency: Our work should be visible and understandable to the public. We will conduct business openly, make information accessible, and encourage participation in the decision-making process. Transparency ensures that our actions can withstand public scrutiny.
Respect and collaboration: We will work together in a spirit of respect, even when opinions differ. Healthy debate and mutual understanding strengthen our ability to serve effectively. By valuing each person’s perspective, we create better, more balanced solutions for our community.
Together, these principles – truth, fairness, accountability, transparency, and respect – define the ethical foundation of our work. They are not just words we recite, but values we live by every day in service to those who have entrusted us with leadership.
Sincerely,
Platte County Commissioners
Steve Shockley, Ian Jolovich, Jeb Baker
