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ITEM #8 CITY OF COLTON AGENDA REPORT FOR THE COUNCIL MEETING OF AUGUST 15, 2006 TO: HONORABLE MAYOR MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL �✓ FROM: ANTHONY ARROYO, HUMAN RESOURCES DIRECTOR Y'1 SUBJECT: Approve and Adopt the following Two Policies: The Professional Dress and Personal Appearance Policy and the revised Harassment Policy. DATE: August 2, 2006 BACKGROUND: The city has never had a policy pertaining to the professional attire of city employees. The new policy specifically addresses the professional attire employees are expected to adhere to during the work week with the exception of Thursday (there is a specific "casual Thursdays" clothing policy). The Professional Dress and Appearance Policy clearly outlines the clothing that employees are to wear when attending meetings where they are representing their respective department. On August 16, 1994, Council adopted the Harassment Policy, which has since been in place. The policy was written in such a way that the language could be misinterpreted and pose potential problems for the employee and city during harassment investigations. As such, the policy was revised to eliminate any conflicting language and to provide the employee with more specific information when considering filing a harassment complaint. In addition, the policy includes updated information where an employee can seek assistance or guidance. On June 19, 2006 letters were sent to all of the city's represented bargaining groups advising them of the new and revised policies. All bargaining groups were given 30 days (until July 20) to respond to Human Resources and provide feedback or request a meet and confer. Only the Police Management Association responded and had no question or comments regarding either policy. The city has met its obligation in properly notifying all bargaining groups. ANALYSIS/DISCUSSION: Over the years, there has been discussion amongst supervisors as to what is appropriate to wear during the work week (specifically Monday through Wednesday) and the authority these supervisors had in enforcing a dress code. By adopting the Professional Dress and Appearance Policy, there will now be a city-wide policy that all employees will adhere to. It should be noted, in recent years, there has never been an incident that involved Human Resources or any bargaining group to resolve a "clothing issue." However, this policy will be a guideline for employees to follow and for supervisors to enforce, if needed. The Harassment Policy has been revised to include new issues that have arisen over the last few years when harassment claims have been filed (not pertaining to the City of Colton). As such, the