Government Ethics 101
Welcome to the Office of Equity and Transparency's (OET) education page! Providing education and training opportunities for both Long Beach officials and employees, as well as the public, on governmental ethics is crucial for fostering trust and ensuring a healthy democracy.
For employees, understanding ethical principles and potential pitfalls empowers them to make informed decisions, navigate complex situations with integrity, and maintain public trust. An effective training program also encourages people to ask questions when they are unclear or just curious about something.
For the public, awareness of ethical standards and avenues for reporting potential violations promotes transparency and accountability, encouraging active participation in holding their government officials to the highest ethical standards.
By investing in ethical education and training, we can build a stronger foundation for good governance, fostering public confidence and shaping a more ethical and responsible City.
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the Ethical Elephant Newsletter
- Current Edition: February 2026
- Archives:
Behested Payments
- FPPC Fact Sheet
- Presentation: Behested Payments: Payments to Other People or Organizations on Behalf of an Elected Official
- Understanding Behest Payments
Code of Conduct and Ethics
- City of Long Beach Code of Conduct
- Compliance Brief: Code of Conduct
- Making Ethical Decisions
- Misuse of Resources
- Respecting Others
Ethics Helpline
- Introduction to the Helpline
- Speaking Up and Non-Retaliation Video
- Speak Up Poster
- Raising Concerns Video
Framework for Ethical Decision Making
Gifts
- Can I Accept This Gift?
- Eye on Ethics: Gifts
- FAQ
- FPPC Fact Sheet
- Gifts Guide Infographic
- Compliance Guys Video
- Ode to Gift Codes
Political Neutrality and Teamwork
- Work as One Video
- Political Activities in the Workplace
- Political Activities: What's Appropriate, What's Not?
Public Records Act (PRA)
Quick Links
Contact us
Ethics Commission
Heather Van Wijk, Ethics Officer
Email: heather.vanwijk@longbeach.gov
Phone: (562) 570-7443
Public Records Requests
General City
PublicRecordsRequest
@longbeach.gov
Phone: (562) 570-6680
+Online Request Portal
Police Department
PDPRA@longbeach.gov
Phone: (562) 570-7260
+Online Request Portal
City Prosecutor
Prosecutor@longbeach.gov
Phone: (562) 570-5600
+Online Request Portal
ETHICS COMMISSION
Meeting Time
3 pm on the second Wednesday of each month
Meeting Location
Civic Chambers, 411 W. Ocean Blvd.
