Language in the Village ordinances notwithstanding, all prior
existing sexual harassment policies and/or provisions shall be superseded
by this policy prohibiting sexual harassment.
It is unlawful to harass a person because of that person's
sex. The courts have determined that sexual harassment is a form of
discrimination under Title VII of the United States Civil Rights Act
of 1964, as amended in 1991. All persons have a right to work in an
environment free from sexual harassment. Sexual harassment is unacceptable
misconduct which affects individuals of all genders and sexual orientations.
It is a policy of the Village of Sidney to prohibit harassment of
any person by any municipal officials, municipal agents, municipal
employees and municipal agencies or offices, which are prohibited
from sexually harassing any person, regardless of any employment relationship
or lack thereof.
In addition to any and all other discipline that may be applicable
pursuant to municipal policies, employment agreements, procedures,
employee handbooks and/or collective bargaining agreements, any person
who violates this policy or the prohibition on sexual harassment contained
in 5 ILCS 430/5-65 may be subject to a fine of up to $5,000 per offense,
applicable discipline or discharge by the municipality and any applicable
fines and penalties established pursuant to local ordinance, state
law or federal law. Each violation may constitute a separate offense.
Any discipline imposed by the municipality shall be separate and distinct
from any penalty imposed by an ethics commission and any fines or
penalties imposed by a court of law or a state or federal agency.