RES 23-008RESOLUTION NO. 23-008
A RESOLUTION of the City Council of the City of Camas,
Washington , adopting a Civility and Belonging Agreement.
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Camas has heretofore established an Equity
Committee tasked with preparing a statement for council consideration and adoption related to
civility issues; and
WHEREAS , the Equity Committee held meetings between March and July 2023 , as
supported by City staff, and fully explored ongoing and anticipated issues associated with civility
and the appropriate standards for the practice of behaviors and interactions by and between the
City council, staff, members of city committees and commissions, and the public; and
WHEREAS , over the last several years the City has adopted civility policies within the
City employee handbook, and for participation withing certain library and parks programs; and
WHEREAS, civility is the basic standard that extends and is practiced by all parties and
should be expected of council, staff and citizens; and
WHEREAS, there is a clear expectation that individuals treat each other with respect,
kindness, consideration, to reduce conflicts , harassment and disrespectful behavior which would
thereby create a more productive and engaging environment for the conduct of City business;
and
WHEREAS, all individuals, regardless of their station, background or opinions, are
valued and should feel safe through their participation in City programs; and
WHEREAS, encouraging civility in such participation furthers constructive dialogue,
improves decision making, and demonstrates a commitment to ethical behavior and professional
conduct all of which support a positive reputation for the City of Camas ; and
WHEREAS , in a broader sense, emphasizing civility in our interactions provides a means
to address inappropriate conduct and, in particular for virtual spaces , serves as a foundation for
establishing community guidelines, rules for participation, content, and engagement all of which
assist in maintaining a positive online atmosphere; and
WHEREAS, adoption of a Civility and Belonging Agreement in the City of Camas
demonstrates compliance with legal requirements related to discrimination, harassment , and
other forms of misconduct while contributing to the cultivation of a positive organizational and
community culture.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
CAMAS, AS FOLLOWS :
I.
The Civility and Belonging Agreement attached hereto as Exhibit "A" is hereby adopted
by the City Council of the City of Camas as a general statement of intent as relates to
interactions by and between the City Council, staff, and members of the public in their
participation within all City programs. The City Clerk is directed to maintain a copy of the
Civility and Belonging Agreement in the records of the City but the terms her ein are not intended
to provide substantive enforcement authority unless and until formall y adopted as part of any
Counci l guidance, rules or procedures.
ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the Council of the City of C
November, 2023 .
AP~:
City Attorney
CIVILITY & BELONGING AGREEMENT
City of Camas
The City of Camas prioritizes mutual respect and civility among its employees,
councilors and citizens, contributing to a sense of belonging for all.
Respect, civility, integrity, and honesty are not just words but intentions that must
be present in our interactions. Civility requires cooperation, tolerance,
forgiveness, acceptance, inclusiveness, kindness, compassion, courtesy,
perception, self-awareness, and patience.
We honor the right of expression and value individual freedom tempered with
respect for the rights of others, even in controversial or out-of-favor viewpoints.
Individuals should not feel intimidated or face reprisals for voicing their concerns
or participating in government or policy-making.
We acknowledge and are open to feedback on our behavior, understanding that
perceptions of what is civil conduct can be influenced by culture and life
experiences .
We each have a responsibility to counteract incivility and speak out when
necessary.