Every member of this Association shall adhere to the Code of Ethics of this Association. The purpose of the Code of Ethics is to protect the public and raise the standards of conduct of the self-storage industry. These standards may exceed, but are never less than nor contrary, to those required by law.
Each member of the Association shall:
Violations of these Code of Ethics may result in disciplinary action by the Board of Directors up to and including termination of membership.
Statement of Policy
The Self Storage Association of South Carolina (SSASC) recognizes and acknowledges the importance of preserving a free, competitive economy in the United States. It is SSASC’s policy to avoid any conduct or discussion that would constitute, or which could be construed as, restraining competition among competitors through agreement, understanding or otherwise, as to the price, production, or distribution of their products, or other agreements which unreasonably restrict competition, or restrict the competitive capabilities or opportunities of their competitors, their suppliers or their customers.
As unlawful agreements can sometimes be inferred from circumstantial evidence, it is the intention of this organization to avoid even the appearance of questionable activity. Accordingly, all SSASC meetings of every kind will be conducted in accordance with the following procedures:
There will be no discussion at any time of:
It is the policy of SSASC and its members to comply strictly with all laws applicable to SSASC’s activities. Because such activities involve cooperative undertakings and meetings among competitors, the Board of Directors emphasizes the ongoing commitment of SSASC and its members to full compliance with federal and state antitrust laws. A statement explaining this policy is to be made available at all SSASC meetings to remind each member of this commitment and as a general guide for our activities and meetings.
Responsibility for Antitrust Compliance
SSASC’s programs have been designed and reviewed to ensure their conformity with antitrust standards. Each SSASC member has an equivalent responsibility for antitrust compliance. Each business enterprise and SSASC depend upon good judgment by all to avoid discussions and activities which could involve improper subject matter or improper procedures, or even an appearance of improper activity. SSASC staff members work conscientiously to avoid subject matters for discussion which may have unintended implications, and counsel for SSASC provides guidance with regard to these matters. All concerned have an important and individual responsibility for assuring antitrust compliance in SSASC activities.
Meeting Procedures
To avoid even the appearance of questionable activity, as well as to guard against inadvertent conduct, all SSASC meetings shall follow these guidelines:
Conclusion
These guidelines are intended to highlight and emphasize the commitment of this organization to abide by the spirit of the law, and to set forth general, basic precautions designed to avoid not only antitrust violations, but any behavior which might be considered improper as well.
In case of doubt, seek the guidance of SSASC counsel, the officers of SSASC or your own corporate counsel if antitrust questions arise.