The Independence City Council has had numerous discussions recently regarding best practices for City Council ethics. At the June 27th Study Session, the City Council directed the City Manager to recommend and draft a resolution to form an advisory commission specifically tasked with recommending mechanisms to enhance the City Council's ethical policies and procedures.

If approved, this resolution would create the Mayor’s Advisory Commission on Ethics Reform. The Mayor’s Advisory Commission on Ethics Reform would consist of seven members appointed by the Mayor with the advice and consent of the City Council. The composition of the commission would include: two members from the Independence Board of Ethics, two former members of the Independence City Council, one member of the Independence Ministerial Alliance, and two community members at-large. Members of the Commission shall be residents of or have their principal place of business in the City of Independence. 

That the purpose of the Commission is to: 
1. Research and review local government best practices regarding code of ethics for elected officials, campaign contribution restrictions, term limits for elected officials, addressing conflicts of interest, and investigative powers for the Board of Ethics.
2. Make recommendations in each of these topical areas, including recommendations for implementation.
3. Provide their findings and recommendations to the City Charter Review Commission for those items deemed to be best addressed in the City Charter. 
4. Serve as an advisory body to the Mayor and make recommendations to the City Council regarding the establishment and implementation of ethics policies, programs, and enforcement. 

This Commission would sunset no later than six months from the date of the first Commission meeting.