(A) The Town of Sellersburg strongly discourages romantic or sexual relationships between a manager or other supervisory employee and his or her staff because such relationships tend to create compromising conflicts of interest or the appearance of such conflicts. In addition, such a relationship may give rise to the perception by others that there is favoritism or bias in employment decisions affecting the staff employee. If there is such a relationship, the parties need to be aware that one or both may be moved to another department, or other actions may be taken.
(B) If any employee of the town enters into a consensual relationship that is romantic or sexual in nature with a member of his/her staff, or if one of the parties is in a supervisory capacity within the same department in which the other party works, the parties must notify the administrative department head and/or a member of the Town Council. Because of potential issues regarding quid pro quo harassment, the town has made reporting mandatory. This policy also applies to romantic relationships between other employees, regardless of reporting structure.
(C) Once the relationship is made known to the town, the situation will be reviewed by the administrative department head to determine the course of action in the best interests of the town. Both parties may have to sign a consensual relationship agreement.
(Ord. 2021-OR-031, passed 11-22-21)