§ 2-2-261. Procedure for investigating disclosures.

(a)

Once a disclosure has been made, the county administrator and county attorney shall confer to determine whether any investigation is warranted and, if so, an appropriate course of investigation of the disclosure, in light of the specifies of the disclosure, the laws and regulations which may apply, the complexity or sophistication of the matters involved in the disclosure, whether criminal violations may be present, and any other relevant factors. Should the county administrator or county attorney be the subject of a disclosure, then the remaining unaccused official shall confer with the chairman of the county commission on a proper course of action.

(b)

The level of formality and documentation of any investigation of disclosures made may vary depending on the nature and severity of the disclosure. In any event, the chair and members of the county commission should be kept updated as appropriate on the progress of any investigation.

(c)

Once a determination has been made with respect to how any investigation will proceed, such investigation will be conducted in an expeditious manner. The county administrator or county attorney, as the case may be, shall make any criminal or regulatory referrals, recommend modified policies to the county commission, or take any other actions which are deemed necessary as a result of the investigation.

(d)

Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions, the clerk of the circuit court, in the execution of his or her independent constitutional or statutory duties and powers, may establish additional or different investigative procedures and practices for allegations filed directly with the clerk.

(Ord. No. 04-35, § 2, 1-6-04)