You, as a supervisor, should indicate that the Borough
of Dumont takes complaints seriously and that you will help them get
in touch with the proper person to be sure that their complaint is
carefully investigated and resolved and that action will be taken
quickly and discreetly.
Notify the Borough Administrator as soon as possible.
The Borough Administrator is trained to handle these situations and
will guide you through the process of conducting an investigation.
Support the Borough Administrator's investigation by providing documentation
and taking action that is deemed necessary.
A supervisor or manager must document the fact that
you referred the problem to the Borough Administrator and let the
complainant (employee) know that you made the referral. If it is appropriate
(depending on the advice from the Borough Administrator or legal counsel),
check with the complainant every few days to see how that person is
doing and to ask whether there is anything else you can do to help.
Do not discuss the case with anyone unless there is
a specific need for someone to know. If names are revealed too soon,
or to the wrong parties, retaliation could occur.
Never retaliate against a person who has brought forward
a sexual harassment claim.
After the investigation, follow up with the
employee to reinforce your commitment, even if the situation has been
handed over to the Borough Administrator.