When a serious ethical conduct complaint is received, it is first assessed by the Public Officer to determine if it falls within the scope of matters that may warrant investigation.

The Public Officer may:

• Refer the matter to Council’s General Manager to approve the commencement of an investigation.
• Refer the issue to another section of Council for action if it is of a less serious nature. The Public Officer will advise the complainant that this has occurred.
• Recommend to the General Manager an alternate course of action.