§ 2-365. Introduction.

Policies are defined as the basic rules which guide administrative action in accomplishing an organization's objectives. Comprehensive and clearly defined policies, which are consistently and fairly administered, are essential to the success of any organization. This manual contains those policies set forth for employees of the City of Effingham. All personnel charged with the responsibility of administering policies must be thoroughly familiar with the contents of this manual. Furthermore, it is essential that these policies be administered in a systematic, fair, and impartial manner.

It is the responsibility of each city employee to familiarize himself/herself with the policies contained in tills manual and to comply with their administration. Employees should address questions of policy interpretation to their department head or other designated personnel pursuant to the city operational chain of command (exhibit A). All employees will receive formal notification of the accessible manual, within the city's code book, for their personal use. Employees will also be required to sign a statement acknowledging receipt of the formal notification and their responsibility to familiarize themselves with the policies contained in the manual.

Undoubtedly, there will be situations which require administrative interpretations of the policies set forth in this manual. An effort must be made to ensure that such decisions are made as objectively and consistently as possible, keeping the general intent of the policy in mind.

As conditions change within the city, it may be necessary to add, delete, or revise specific policies which have been affected by such change. All changes in policy will be approved through the city council. The city administrator and/or his/her designee is authorized to amend, add or subtract any forms and exhibits contained herein. Amended or supplementary policies and forms will be issued to all employees.

The policies set forth in this manual supersede all previously written and unwritten City Personnel Policies. In the event there is a conflict between the policies set forth in this manual and any applicable law, the applicable law will prevail.

The rules expressed in this personnel policy shall apply to all positions in all departments of the City excluding the Effingham Public Library, except for instances where a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) has a specific provision that is in conflict with a specific provision of the City personnel policy. In these instances, the terms of the CBA will apply with respect to employees covered by the CBA.

The policies outlined in this manual are presented as a matter of information only, and may be changed at any time by the City. This manual is not an expressed or implied employment contract. No representative of the City has the authority to enter into an agreement with any employee that is contrary to the foregoing.

(Ord. No. 72-2011, § I(Exh. A), 12-20-2011; Ord. No. 110-2017 , § I(Exh. A), 11-21-2017)