§ 32-13. Effect of violation., Chapter 32. Code of Ethics, Ordinances, Code of Ordinances, Norwalk

A violation of this Code of Ethics:

(1)

By an elected Officer may be considered dereliction of official duty, and therefore a cause for censure, impeachment or removal from office under the Code of the City of Norwalk.

(2)

By an Officer of an appointed board or commission may be considered misconduct in the performance of duties and therefore a ground for censure or removal under the Code of the City of Norwalk.

(3)

By an Employee of an Agency may be considered misconduct and therefore a ground for censure or discipline, including demotion in rank or grade, termination of a contract or discharge under the Code of the City of Norwalk and any applicable labor agreement.

Any Individual who is found in violation of this chapter may be subject to a civil action by the City to recover damages, if any, that are incurred by the City as a result of said Individual's unethical conduct. The costs of the hearing process under this Code of Ethics shall not be included in the aforementioned damages and shall not be recoverable under the provisions of this subsection.

Any Officer or Employee who is determined to have violated the provisions of this chapter shall have a copy of said decision placed in his or her official personnel file.

The effect of a violation of this Code of Ethics on the validity of a decision or action in connection with which the violation occurred shall be determined by general principles of law.

Any Officer or Employee who is determined to have violated the provisions of this chapter may be subject to a fine in an amount up to $250 per violation, and such fine may be in addition to any other discipline imposed under this chapter.

Where there has been a violation of the Norwalk Code of Ethics, the City may void any municipal purchase, contract or ruling which the Board of Ethics has found to have been influenced by that violation, pursuant to Section 7-479 of the Connecticut General Statutes.