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Council adopts discharge/transfer appeal ordinance and corrective‑action policy; timekeeping and volunteer policies tabled
Summary
Council approved a change to Ordinance 169 to clarify discharge and transfer appeals and adopted a new corrective‑action policy, while tabling revisions to timekeeping and the volunteer program for further edits.
Council introduced Tim, the HR consultant from Blue Ivy Professional Services, and reviewed a package of HR updates developed to modernize longstanding policies.
Ordinance 169 (discharge/transfer appeal board) was approved by roll call after staff described a recent termination case and the benefits of clarifying whether municipal employees are treated as “at will” or by a formal appeal mechanism. Council voted by roll call to adopt the ordinance change.
The council also voted to adopt a corrective‑action policy that specifies progressive steps (verbal counseling, written notice, performance plans), documentation expectations and escalation to the mayor for significant discipline. Council members emphasized documentation and clarity so supervisors can address performance issues consistently.
On timekeeping, the council discussed callback pay, minimum compensation for after‑hours responses and how on‑call or field staff should record short on‑site responses (for example, responding to a loose dog). Council members asked staff to add explicit language that supervisors or office staff will approve time adjustments and to provide a simple verification method for calls that originate from citizens. Because additional language and an electronic timekeeping option were requested, council rescinded the immediate approval and voted to table the timekeeping policy while staff prepares a revised draft.
The volunteer program discussion led to two edits: (1) minors may volunteer but not for hazardous duties as defined by federal labor rules, and (2) volunteers who receive nominal remuneration or a pass are treated as employees for payroll/immigration paperwork and must complete appropriate employment forms. Council tabled final adoption of the volunteer policy until liability and waiver language are added and staff circulates a final draft.
