Columbia Candidacy for public office ordinance (§ 19-37)

(a) Within thirty (30) days after filing a declaration of candidacy for any elective public office, an employee shall provide written notification to the employee's supervisor and the Human Resources Department.

(b) If at any point during the campaign a conflict of interest as defined in section 19-41 of this Code arises, the employee shall be placed on a leave of absence until after the election. In addition, a leave of absence is required following declaration of candidacy for elective public office until after the election when the public office sought, if elected, would be incompatible with the employee's current position.

(c) An employee, upon election to any public office, shall immediately resign the employee's position with the city as required by law.

(d) Strict compliance with section 19-39 of this Code shall be observed by any employee who is a candidate for public office.