Southtowns Record

4/21/26 Board Packet

Government
Village of Gowanda
Board
Village Board
Meeting
Apr 21, 2026
Kind
Agenda packet
Topics
Public safety, Budget and taxes, Water, sewer and drainage, Parks and recreation, Audits and oversight, Roads and traffic, Zoning and land use

Original document

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While the process may vary from case to case, investigations should be done in accordance with the
 following steps:

 Upon receipt of complaint the Village Treasurer or Mayor will conduct an immediate review of the
 allegations, and take any interim actions. (e.g., instructing the respondent to refrain from
 communications with the complainant), as appropriate. If complaint is verbal, encourage the individual
 to complete the “Complaint Form” in writing. If he or she refuses, prepare a Complaint Form based on
 the verbal reporting.

  If documents, emails or phone records are relevant to the investigation, take steps to obtain
  and preserve them.  ;

  Request and review all relevant documents, including all electronic communications.

  interview all parties invoived, including any relevant witnesses;

  Create a written documentation of the investigation (such as'a  letter, memo or email), which
  contains the following:
  o  Alist of all documents reviewed, along with a detailed summary of relevant documents;
  A list of names of those interviewed, along with a detailed summary of their statements;
  A timeline of events;
  aoood

  A summary of prior relevant incidents, reported or unreported: and
  The basis for the decision and final resolution of the complaint, together with any.
  corrective action(s).

  Keep the written documentation and associated documents in a secure and confidential
  location.

  Promptly notify the individual who reported and the individual(s) about whom the complaint
  was made of the final determination and implement any corrective actions identified in the
  written document.

  Inform the individual who reported of the right to file a complaint or charge externally as
  outlined in the next section.  :

  Legal Protections And External Remedies -

Sexual harassment is not only prohibited by the Village of Gowanda but is also prohibited by state,
federal, and, where applicable, local law.

Aside from the internal process at the Village, employees may also choose to pursue legal remedies
with the following governmental entities. While.a private attorney is not required to file a complaint
with a governmental agency, you may seek the legal advice of an attorney.

In addition.to those outlined below, employees in certain industries may have additional legai
protections.  ;

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