News Release
CLERK’S OFFICE GIFT GUIDE: ONLY THANK-YOU NOTES, PLEASE
Presents, cookies and other holiday goodies are against Clerk’s ethics policy
WEST PALM BEACH, FLA. (December 1, 2011) – If you’re planning to spread holiday cheer this year to Clerk’s office employees, Clerk Sharon Bock has a request: Send cards or thank-you notes.
Since 1995, the Clerk’s office ethics policy has prohibited employees from accepting gifts of any type, during the holidays or at any other time of year. That applies to store-bought gifts and homemade treats.
Last year, Clerk employees received everything from flowers to trays of cookies to gift cards for the holidays. All of the gifts were donated to charity or returned. Homemade food had to be discarded, because many shelters and charitable organizations won’t accept homemade food.
“We acknowledge and appreciate the people who think of us during the holidays. It means we deliver great service throughout the year,” said Clerk Sharon Bock. “But I’m asking people to express their gratitude with thank-you notes or letters to our hard-working employees and their supervisors. That simple expression of thanks will be more meaningful to our employees than a gift or a tray of cookies, since they can keep your notes.”
The Clerk’s office no-gifts policy ensures that employees avoid even the appearance of impropriety. The policy is part of the office’s long-standing commitment to transparency and openness in government.
“This policy is an important part of our culture at the Clerk’s office,” Clerk Bock said. “We want to ensure that everyone who walks into our office receives the same level of courtesy and service, and that no one gets preferential treatment. It’s the right thing to do.”
For more information about the Clerk’s office, please visit www.mypalmbeachclerk.com or call (561) 355-2996.
The Florida Constitution established the independent office of the Clerk & Comptroller as a public trustee, responsible for safeguarding public records and public funds. Clerk Sharon Bock is directly elected by and accountable to Palm Beach County residents. In addition to the roles of Clerk of the Circuit Court, County Recorder and Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners, the Clerk & Comptroller is the Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Auditor for Palm Beach County.
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