Board Policy - Section Number: 01.16.00.00

Purpose

To adopt a procedure for the referral and response to citizen comments, complaints or requests for services filed with the Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) or the County Administrator.

Policy

The Board of County Commissioners welcomes any comments concerning Hillsborough County employees, departments or services. Citizens may express their comments at public meetings or to any officers of the County, however, to facilitate a timely resolution of issues involving County employees, departments or services, citizens should reduce their comments to writing using the attached form (Citizen’s Comment, Complaint and Service Request Form). County employees or departments that are the subject of complaints made by citizens at a public meeting, shall have the opportunity to respond to these complaints. This Policy addresses those citizen comments or complaints and/or requests for services that are raised during BOCC public meetings, or are made to the County Administrator or a County Commissioner. The Board respects the rights of citizens to express their opinions and concerns regarding Board members and staff members; however, the Board requests that citizens present their concerns in a respectful manner.

Responsibilities

The Home Rule Charter of Hillsborough County provides for separation of powers between the legislative and executive branches. The Charter provides that the County Administrator be delegated authority to handle administrative and personnel matters. Accordingly, all citizen complaints are to be handled by the County Administrator who shall ensure compliance with the provisions of this policy. When the County Administrator receives comments, complaints or service requests that must be resolved by an Appointing Authority not under the County Administrator’s jurisdiction, the matter shall be referred to the appropriate Appointing Authority for resolution.