Political Activity: What Board Members Need to Know
Political activity is permitted, but board members must avoid conflicts of interest, protect confidential information, and maintain public trust.
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Keep campaign activity separate from your board role.
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Use board letterhead, email, contact lists or resources for politics.
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Use accurate biographies with a disclaimer that you are not speaking for the board.
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Use your board title to advance a campaign or imply board endorsement.
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Be cautious with social media posts that reference the board or police service.
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Post content that creates the impression your board member role is being used for political campaign purposes
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Seek advice if unsure about conflicts, public trust or board
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Assume that using your personal account means there are no Code obligations.
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Ensure any personal views expressed align with Code of Conduct obligations and do not undermine public trust.
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Use confidential information obtained through your board
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If political activity creates a conflict (actual or perceived), members must:
1. Promptly disclose it
2. Disclose it on record at the next board meeting
3. Not participate in discussion or voting on the affected matter