The City has established a uniform process for receiving and managing non-discrimination complaints. This process provides a structure in which complaints can be most efficiently handled. It serves the purpose of ensuring that the City, its employees, and elected officials are properly complying with Hilliard Code Section 525.19.

The Process:

• STEP 1 – The complainant completes the discrimination complaint form. If the complainant is unable to fill out the form online, paper forms are available at City Hall, 3800 Municipal Way, or by calling the Clerk of Council at (614) 334-2365. When received by a City employee or official, the form shall be provided to the Clerk of Council.
• STEP 2 – Upon receipt, the Clerk of Council date stamps the complaint and forwards it to the Law Director and the respondent.
• STEP 3 – The Law Director, within 10 days, determines whether the allegation is for a violation based on a class protected under federal/state law.
• STEP 4 – If not protected by federal/state law or if federal/state defers based on jurisdiction, the Law Director must notify the complainant and respondent of voluntary mediation.
• STEP 5 – If the complainant and/or respondent decline mediation, the Law Director shall conduct a preliminary investigation. If the Law Director determines an unlawful discriminatory act occurred, a hearing officer may be appointed.