Noting the failed attempt to bring ethics review to DeKalb through legislation that was approved by 92% of voters, the Vista Grove charter includes many provisions preventing unethical activities. They include:

• Term limits for councilpersons and the mayor
• Non-partisan elections
• Monthly public meetings
• Strict requirements about disclosure, recusal and conflict of interest, which, if violated result in removal from the council
• Published monthly reports on the operations and expenditures of the city.
• Internal auditor review (at a minimum quarterly) of operations and expenditures confirming compliance with the city charter and the approved budget