Ethics, Human Relations & Citizen Complaints

An ombudsman is a designated neutral or impartial dispute resolution practitioner who provides confidential and informal assistance to his/her constituents.

An effective ombudsman must have:

• Skills in communicating effectively
• The ability to work with all segments of the community
• Knowledge of the policies and procedures by which the government functions
• The ability to be creative in developing resolutions that are fundamentally fair to all

An ombudsman office provides impartial complaint handling services for citizens and associates who have disputes against government agencies or officials. The office will investigate valid complaints and, if justified, make recommendations to remedy the complaints.

Any citizen can file a complaint against any county officer, department, legislator or employee.

The office is available to all citizens without a fee. However, a 10 cents per page fee may be charged for the copying of files or documents.

The Office of Ethics, Human Relations and Citizen Complaints, cannot by its own authority, revise any administrative or legislative decision, or compel any administrative action.

The OEHRCC cannot recommend or obtain money for citizens. If a citizen is seeking monetary gains, he/she will be directed to the judicial system where such matters are handled. The office does not intervene in criminal or civil court matters.