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Monroe adopts zero-tolerance workplace discrimination ordinance for city employees
Summary
The City Council unanimously adopted Ordinance No. 12,299 imposing zero tolerance for racial discrimination and hostile work-environment conduct by city employees, establishing investigations, disciplinary steps, mandatory training and reporting; an amendment to expand removal provisions failed for lack of a second.
The Monroe City Council unanimously approved Ordinance No. 12,299 on May 26, establishing a zero-tolerance policy for racial discrimination, racist remarks and hostile workplace conduct by city employees and creating a framework for investigation, discipline, mandatory training and reporting.
During the public hearing, resident Charles Theus told the council that a prior incident at an I-20 Board meeting had included comments he found personally targeting and suggested the conduct was motivated by bias. "My character was questioned by a city employee," Theus said, adding that the disagreement had escalated into ongoing litigation.
Councilmember Mr. Harvey proposed an amendment to add a removal provision making violations by appointed board and commission members grounds for removal under appointing-authority standards. Chairman Rodney McFarland said the amendment failed to receive a second and therefore did not advance. The ordinance otherwise passed in its original form.
Council members said the ordinance was intended to raise workplace standards and institute clearer reporting and training obligations for city employees and appointed officials. The ordinance will take effect as provided in its enactment language and will require the city to follow the investigation and reporting procedures described in the text.
The council closed the public hearing on the ordinance with no further public remarks.
