Sec. 11-215. - Allegations of discrimination.

The affirmative action officer shall be responsible for the investigation of any allegation of discrimination in employment practices, provision of services, or city sponsored programs and activities, on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, or disability. Any employee, applicant for employment, service provider or recipient, or participant in city sponsored programs and activities, believing that they have been discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, national origin, or disability, may contact the affirmative action officer, who will promptly investigate the matter in accordance with grievance procedures outlined in the city's affirmative action plan. In addition, the following actions shall be taken: (a)

The affirmative action officer, in carrying out the responsibilities related to investigations, shall make every effort to ensure that investigations are confidential and supported by factual information and impartial judgment.

(b)

Whenever necessary, all officers, employees, and service providers of the city shall furnish the affirmative action officer with any information and records within their custody that may, in the opinion of the affirmative action officer, be deemed necessary to any inquiry or investigation involving an allegation of discrimination and/or retaliation, except as prohibited by law.

(c)

In the event that an officer or employee fails to provide such information or records, or the personnel director disagrees with the necessity of such information and/or otherwise impedes the progress of any inquiry or investigation, the affirmative action officer may call upon the mayor to resolve the situation in an appropriate manner.

(d)

The findings of any investigation conducted by the affirmative action officer shall be reported to the mayor and the personnel hearing board, who shall promptly resolve the matter.

(Ch. 561, § I, 8-21-12; Ch. 877, § I, 6-6-23)