727.05 DIRECTOR OF CONSUMER PROTECTION PROGRAM.
(a) The Sealer of Weights and Measures or his representative, is hereby authorized and directed to receive and investigate all complaints of unlawful, deceptive and unconscionable practices under this chapter, and any violations of federal, State and Municipal statutes, laws, ordinances, rules and regulations affecting consumers. The Sealer of Weights and Measures may also initiate an investigation of such practices if he has probable cause to believe that such practice or violation has taken place.
The Sealer may refer his findings to the Department of Law for whatever legal action may be deemed warranted under the circumstances.
(b) When the Director of the Division of Consumer Affairs believes it would be in the interest of the residents of the City, the Consumer Affairs Division may receive, investigate and attempt to resolve complaints concerning consumer transactions that take place beyond the limits of the City. The Consumer Affairs Division may receive, investigate and attempt to resolve complaints concerning transactions between utilities as defined in Ohio R. C. 4905.03 and consumers, and between financial institutions, dealers in intangibles, and insurance companies as defined in Ohio R. C. 5725.01 and consumers.
(c) In addition to any other powers vested in the Sealer of Weights and Measures to enforce federal, State or local law, he shall have the following powers and duties:
(1) Exercise general supervision over the personnel assigned to enforce the laws pertaining to consumer protection.
(2) Submit to Council such legislation necessary and proper to effectuate the consumer protection program of the City.
(3) Make appropriate studies, prepare short and long term plans for consumer protection, and report annually to the Mayor and City Council on his progress.
(4) Attend public or private hearings of any public agency relating to any aspect of consumer protection or other matters dealing with the administration of this chapter.
(5) Collect and disseminate information and conduct educational training programs relating to consumer protection.
(6) Encourage voluntary cooperation and compliance by all persons and affected groups in order to effectively achieve the purpose of this chapter.
(7) Take such steps as are necessary to insure that all confidential trade secrets obtained are properly safeguarded.
(8) Request, accept, receive and administer public grants, or other funds as provided by rules, regulations and procedures of the City.
(9) Advise, inform, consult and cooperate with federal, State, and local agencies, and with interested groups and persons on the subject of consumer protection.
(10) In carrying out his duties, the Sealer or his representative, shall not disclose publicly the identity of suppliers investigated unless the identity of the supplier has become a matter of public record in hearings, appeals, legal proceedings or in a written assurance of voluntary compliance. This clause shall not be construed to prevent the release of information to other governmental enforcement agencies, to apply to the compilation of studies used by the Sealer on consumer investigations, or to apply to the release of information about public utilities acquired either through the receipt of complaints or through investigations.
(d) The Law Department shall assign an attorney as legal advisor to the Division of Consumer Affairs. The Director of Consumer Affairs and Sealer of Weights and Measures shall be located in the City Hall Building when space becomes available or around the area where the Law Department is located. (Ord. 91280. Passed 3-9-76.)