The Issue
A well-functioning local government depends on transparency, accountability, and public trust. Across British Columbia, many municipalities have adopted formal Codes of Conduct to clearly define ethical standards, behavioral expectations, and accountability mechanisms for elected officials.

These bylaws help ensure that decision-making is consistent, respectful, and aligned with the public interest.

The City of Delta currently operates without a formally adopted Code of Conduct Bylaw for Council under Section 113.1 of the BC Community Charter. Instead, Council has relied on a non-binding Code of Ethics, which does not provide the same level of clarity, enforcement, or accountability.

A formal Code of Conduct would:

     Establish clear expectations for ethical behavior and decision-making
     Promote transparency and consistency in Council conduct
     Provide a structured accountability framework
    Strengthen public trust in Delta’s local government
    Such bylaws are not punitive — they are preventive and constructive. In municipalities where they exist, Codes of Conduct help clarify governance, reduce conflict, and reinforce respect among elected officials, staff, and residents.

 
Why This Matters Now
Recent experiences in Delta have highlighted a gap between public expectations and the existing governance framework. When residents raise concerns or seek accountability, there is often no clear, enforceable standard guiding how those concerns are handled.

Without a formal Code of Conduct Bylaw, there is:

     No consistent accountability framework
     No independent complaint or enforcement mechanism
     No clear standard for expected conduct beyond general policies
     This creates uncertainty for residents and weakens confidence in local government processes.

     A Code of Conduct is not about criticism — it is about clarity, fairness, and accountability for everyone.

 
Facts & Evidence
In May 2023, the Delta Council formally considered adopting a Code of Conduct but concluded it was “not necessary” and instead relied on a non-binding Code of Ethics.
Under Section 113.1 of the BC Community Charter, municipalities must consider adopting a Code of Conduct and provide public reasons if they choose not to.
Across British Columbia, over 70% of municipalities have adopted formal Codes of Conduct, and in most other provinces, such codes are mandatory.
Municipal organizations and governance experts have identified growing concerns about the lack of accountability tools where Codes of Conduct are absent.
 
Current Status (2026)
Under Section 113.1 of the BC Community Charter, Council is required to reconsider the adoption of a Code of Conduct before January 1 of the next general election year.

As of May 2026, it remains unclear whether the City of Delta has publicly completed this reconsideration or provided updated public reasoning.

This raises an important question for residents:

   ➡️ Has the City fulfilled its obligation to reconsider and clearly communicate its position?

    Ensuring transparency on this matter is especially important with the upcoming municipal election.

 
Our Request
We respectfully call on the City of Delta Council to:

     Adopt a formal Code of Conduct Bylaw under Section 113.1 of the BC Community Charter; or
    Clearly and publicly communicate its decision and reasoning regarding reconsideration, as required
    With the October 2026 municipal election approaching, this is the right time to ensure clear, consistent, and enforceable governance standards are in place for both current and future Council.

 
Call to Action
By signing this petition, you are supporting a transparent, fair, and accountable framework for municipal leadership in Delta.

This is a practical and achievable step that aligns Delta with best practices across British Columbia and Canada — and helps strengthen public confidence in local government.