Council briefed on workplace conduct training; city manager and attorney back exploring third-party reporting hotline

The city attorney provided a briefing on workplace conduct and harassment rules for elected officials and staff and recommended proactive measures to reduce legal exposure and improve reporting. She said that even informal interactions with staff can create a hostile work environment and that officials should remain professional in their communications.

Why it matters: Lisa said municipal actors can create legal liability for the city through inappropriate conduct or by creating a hostile work environment. She described forms of prohibited conduct, including discriminatory or sexual harassment, public criticism of staff that creates a hostile workplace and interfering in staff investigations or permitting decisions.

Independent reporting: The city manager raised the possibility of an independent third-party hotline or reporting mechanism for sensitive complaints, especially those involving the city manager. "I think a small investment in a third party service to ensure that we have a true anonymous... ethics reporting hotline is the right thing," he said. Several council members voiced support for exploring that option and consulting the South Dakota Municipal League about service providers.

Discussion vs. decision: The briefing included policy options and an express preference to explore third-party reporting; the council did not adopt a vendor or a specific reporting mechanism during the meeting.

Ending: Staff said they will examine third-party options and the municipal league's offerings and will return with recommendations.