§ 2-6-71. Prohibition on gifts and gratuities; exceptions.

(a)

A public servant shall not accept gifts, gratuities, honoraria, or other thing of value from any person or entity doing business or seeking to do business with the city, is seeking official action from the city, has interests that could be substantially affected by the performance of the public servant's official duties, or is registered as a lobbyist under applicable law and Section 2-6-35 of this Code.

(b)

The prohibition in Subsection (a) of this section shall not apply;

(1)

To an award publicly presented to a public servant by an individual, governmental body or non-governmental entity or organization in recognition of public service;

(2)

To complimentary copies of trade publications, books, reports, pamphlets, calendars, periodicals or other informational materials;

(3)

To a gift received from a public servant's immediate family member or relative, provided, that the immediate family member or relative is not acting as a third party's intermediary or an agent in an attempt to circumvent this prohibition;

(4)

To an admission or registration fee, travel expenses, entertainment, meals or refreshments that are furnished to the public servant;

(i)

By the sponsor(s) of an event, appearance or ceremony, which is related to official city business in connection with such an event, appearance or ceremony and to which one (1) or more of the public are invited; or

(ii)

In connection with teaching, a speaking engagement, or the provision of assistance to an organization or another governmental entity as long as the city does not compensate the public servant for admission or registration fees, travel expenses, entertainment, meals or refreshment for the same activity.

(Ord. No. 18-12, § 1, 7-31-12)