Clerk presents 'Commitment to Excellence' draft for boards and commissions; council praises approach

Catherine Glass, the clerk of council, presented a draft 'Commitment to Excellence' document intended as guidance for citizen appointees to boards and commissions.

The draft covers standards of conduct, training expectations, conflict‑of‑interest guidance, social media use and operational best practices. "We are calling this the commitment to excellence and we are Hampton, a vibrant waterfront community...the citizens who join us in service to our city through service to the onboard commissions and committees demonstrate their commitment to excellence," Glass said as she summarized the document's goals.

Glass said the draft will be refined based on feedback and is expected to be returned to council for action at the November meeting, with training rollout beginning in January (to be offered in multiple sessions, including virtual options to reach appointees). Council members complimented the effort and asked for clarifications — for example how the document's phrase about staying current on tax obligations would be implemented; Glass said it is intended as guidance and the city will not be auditing personal tax records but expects appointees to adhere to legal obligations.

Council expressed general support for the guidance and its emphasis on civility, confidentiality where required, and training. The item will return for formal adoption and implementation steps.