LBA Code of Conduct

A thriving community of local businesses depends on a shared foundation of trust, ethics, and mutual respect. The LBA Code of Conduct exists to protect that foundation — ensuring every member contributes positively to our mission of supporting independent, community-rooted businesses across Douglas County and beyond.

Membership Code of Conduct & Guidelines

United by Local. Built on Trust.

The Local Business Alliance (LBA) is a network of business leaders committed to uplifting local economies, practicing ethical entrepreneurship, and building community through action. As members, we hold ourselves — and each other — to high standards of conduct, respect, and responsibility. These guidelines represent our shared values and expectations.

🤝 1. Honesty, Integrity & Truthfulness

  • Represent your business, products, and services truthfully — no exaggeration, false claims, or misleading marketing.
  • Commit to transparency in business operations and communication.
  • Own your mistakes and resolve them quickly and respectfully.

🧭 2. Customer-First Commitment

  • Prioritize customer satisfaction, safety, and fair treatment at all times.
  • Communicate clearly and deliver on your promises.
  • Embrace feedback and use it as a tool for growth and accountability.

⚖️ 3. Ethical Business Practices

  • Follow all applicable laws and conduct business ethically beyond the minimum standard.
  • Refrain from deceptive sales tactics, bait-and-switch offers, or price manipulation.
  • Avoid any form of bribery, kickbacks, or unethical incentives in relationships or transactions.
  • Maintain all required professional licensing, permits, and active insurance coverage relevant to your industry and scope of work. Members must provide proof of compliance upon joining, renewal, and upon request, and remain in good standing with state and local regulators. Failure to maintain compliance may result in suspension or removal.

💬 4. Respect for Fellow Members & Competitors

  • Treat all members, customers, and competitors with respect and professionalism.
  • No badmouthing. Refrain from negative talk about other businesses — inside or outside of LBA.
  • Conflicts should be handled privately, constructively, and with mutual respect.

🧩 5. Don’t Just Preach Local — Live It

  • Go beyond lip service: support local with your purchasing decisions, partnerships, and advocacy.
  • Engage with your community meaningfully — attend events, volunteer, collaborate.
  • Promote the spirit of local through your brand values, not just your marketing.

🤐 6. Confidentiality in Forums & Discussions

  • Conversations within private LBA channels, groups, and meetings are confidential unless stated otherwise.
  • Do not share screenshots, recordings, or sensitive business information without consent.
  • Respect members’ disclosures about their businesses, clients, or operations.

🌐 7. Proper Use of LBA Branding & Materials

  • Members may only use official LBA-provided materials (logo files, badges, banners, etc.) as distributed or authorized by LBA.
  • Do not modify, recreate, or personalize the LBA logo or any brand assets.
  • Unapproved uses, such as printing shirts, promotional items, or signage, are strictly prohibited unless granted in writing.
  • Misuse of the LBA brand will result in review and may lead to revocation of membership privileges.

🧘 8. Professional Conduct & Equal Opportunity

  • LBA membership is open to qualified business owners and professionals who meet our standards and agree to uphold this Code.
  • Discrimination, harassment, or unprofessional behavior toward any member, customer, or partner will not be tolerated.
  • Maintain a professional environment where all members are treated respectfully and interactions remain focused on business, collaboration, and mutual success.

🚀 9. Participation & Community Engagement

  • LBA thrives when members contribute — show up, share resources, and support others.
  • Engage in local efforts that build relationships and improve the community.
  • Offer mentorship, referrals, or insight where you can — we’re stronger together.

📣 10. No Spamming or Excessive Self-Promotion

  • Promote your business with care, not clutter. Avoid spammy posts or repetitive pitches.
  • Respect platform rules (Facebook Groups, Slack, etc.) and specific posting guidelines.
  • Focus on adding value and building trust over direct selling.

🛑 11. Accountability & Reporting

  • LBA reserves the right to investigate complaints and remove members who violate this Code.
  • Violations will be addressed fairly and privately by the leadership team.
  • Repeated or serious violations (e.g., brand misuse, harassment, dishonesty) may result in removal without refund.

✅ 12. Agreement to Uphold the Code

  • All members agree to abide by this Code upon joining and are expected to uphold it consistently.
  • Renewal of membership implies re-affirmation of your commitment to these principles.

🧡 Our Collective Commitment

As LBA members, we pledge to:

  • Build trust through transparency and truth.
  • Support and strengthen our local economy.
  • Collaborate, not compete destructively.
  • Lead with heart, ethics, and service.
  • Protect the reputation and values of the LBA community.