The Village of Pinehurst Council has approved an updated Village Council Code of Ethics, reaffirming its commitment to transparent, accountable, and community-centered governance.

Originally adopted in 2010, the Village Council Code of Ethics has been updated to better reflect today's governing environment while continuing to meet North Carolina statutory requirements. The revisions also address modern forms of public communication, including digital communications and social media.

The updated code is built around five core principles: public trust, integrity, transparency, accountability, and respect. It recognizes that thoughtful disagreement and open discussion are essential to representative government while encouraging Council members to conduct themselves with professionalism, civility, and respect in all official and public interactions.

Key updates include:

• Clear expectations for public communications, including guidance for digital communications and social media use.
• Stronger guidance on conflicts of interest, confidentiality, professional conduct, and compliance with open meetings and public records laws.
• A defined process for reviewing alleged ethics concerns that emphasizes fairness, due process, education, and accountability.
• Required ethics training for all Council members following election or appointment and throughout their service.

"Good governance starts with clear expectations," said Village Manager Doug Willardson. "This update modernizes the Village Council's Code of Ethics while reinforcing the values of integrity, transparency, accountability, and respect that guide public service in Pinehurst. It's an important step in maintaining the trust our residents place in their local government."

The revised Code of Ethics became effective immediately following Council's adoption on June 23, 2026.

Residents can review the Village Council Code of Ethics at vopnc.org.