(a) There is hereby created the position of Fair Housing Officer within the Community Development Department.
(b) The Community Development Director shall serve as the Fair Housing Officer and may delegate the responsibilities of Fair Housing Officer to such employees as may now or in the future be under his direct supervision.
(c) The position of Fair Housing Officer shall receive no compensation, benefits or remuneration in addition to that provided for by existing ordinances of the City.
(d) The Fair Housing Officer shall:
(1) Receive, investigate and pass upon written charges made under oath of unlawful discriminatory practices prohibited under this chapter;
(2) Make periodic surveys of the existence and effects of discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, handicap, or ancestry within the City on the enjoyment of rights provided under this chapter;
(3) Report from time to time, as necessary or appropriate, to Council describing any investigations or actions undertaken in furtherance of the provisions of this chapter;
(4) Acquire, prepare and disseminate informational and educational materials and programs as appropriate in the furtherance of this chapter.
(e) The Fair Housing Officer may:
(1) Make recommendations to the officers, agencies or commissioners of the City, the State of Ohio or Mercer County as to actions which appear appropriate in the furtherance of this chapter;
(2) Subject to prevailing law and approved and available budget appropriations, enter into agreements with private or public individuals, officers, agencies or commissions for assistance in enforcing this chapter;
(3) Provide documentary evidence and testimony in legal actions regarding unlawful discriminatory actions within the City brought by private or public individuals, officers, agencies or commissions under the laws of the State of Ohio or the United States.
(Ord. 25-90-0. Passed 11-26-90.)