Except as otherwise provided by law, no person shall be appointed as
a member of the Police Department and force unless he is:
A. A citizen of the United States and a resident of New
Jersey.
B. Sound in body and of good health sufficient to satisfy
the Board of Trustees of the Police and Firemen's Retirement System of
New Jersey as to his eligibility for membership in the retirement system.
C. Able to read, write and speak the English language well
and intelligently.
D. Of good moral character and has not been convicted of
any criminal offense involving moral turpitude.
All new police officers and civilian employees, before their assignment
to duty and prior to their promotion to higher ranks, shall be required to
take an oath of office as follows: "I (name of police officer or employee)
do solemnly swear I will support the Constitution of the United States and
the Constitution of the State of New Jersey and that I will faithfully discharge
the duties of (state rank or position) of the City of Somers Point according
to the best of my ability. So help me God."
Appointment of a patrolman to the Police Department is for a probationary
period of 90 days after he has completed training. Continuation in the service
is dependent upon the conduct of the appointee and his fitness to perform
his duties. At the termination of the probationary period, if the conduct
or capacity of the probationer has not been satisfactory, he shall be notified,
in writing, that he will not receive absolute appointment and his services
shall be terminated by the Police Chief without a trial (reference: N.J.S.A.
11:22.6). The probationary period may be extended up to one year in order
to comply with the mandatory training required under N.J.S.A. 52:17B-69.
Members and employees operating Department motor vehicles shall possess
a valid New Jersey driver's license. Whenever a driver's license
is revoked, suspended or lost, he shall immediately notify his commanding
officer, giving full particulars.
Members and employees who have sustained injury while off duty and who
have received salary from the city while injured shall notify the Chief of
Police, in writing, of any intent to seek, sue, solicit or accept compensation
as damages for such injury. This notice shall be filed before any action is
taken. It shall include the facts of the claim and the name of the respondent.
[Amended 2-25-1999 by Ord. No. 2-1999]
The Police Chief shall recognize and deal with the members and employees
of the Police Department for the adjustment of any grievances which may arise
in accordance with the following procedure: Referral to the grievance procedure
set forth in the police collective bargaining agreement or personal service
contract.