As used in this chapter, the following terms shall have the meanings
indicated:
SEXUAL HARASSMENT
Any unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other
verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when:
A.
Submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a
term or condition of a person's employment; or
B.
Submission to or rejection of such conduct by a person is used as a
basis for employment decisions affecting that person; or
C.
Such conduct has the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with
a person's work performance; or
D.
Such conduct creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive work environment.
Sexual harassment is hereby prohibited between employees of the Borough
of Catasauqua. Sexual harassment is declared to be a serious violation of
the work rules of this Borough and, if proven, shall be grounds for the imposition
of discipline. Discipline for the offense shall range from an oral or written
reprimand to suspension without pay or, ultimately, termination depending
upon the following:
A. The individual facts of any given case; and
B. The employment record of the person committing such harassment.
Any employee who believes that another employee is engaging in sexual
harassment may file a complaint within a reasonable period of time after the
event (normally not more than 180 days).
No person filing a complaint under this policy or who legitimately assists
another in prosecution of any such complaint shall be subjected to retribution
or retaliation of any kind for doing so.
All complaints of sexual harassment shall be filed in writing with the
Borough Manager or, in cases involving the Borough Manager, the Council President.
The complaint shall state with specificity the dates, times and places of
the actions complained of and the specific facts surrounding the incidents
complained of.
Due to the serious and private nature of this offense, false accusations
of sexual harassment are, and will be treated as, a disciplinary offense and
will result in the same level of punishment as that applied to one who engages
in sexual behavior.