SOUTHWICK – The Board of Selectmen approved a Visitor’s Code of Conduct this week, which outlines behavior expectations for people on municipal property.
“This is so everyone can feel safe on town property,” said Chairman Russell Fox.
The document has been a work in progress for several months and was sent to all department heads for review and comments, as well as to Town Counsel.
The policy states that the Town of Southwick employees strive to provide a positive experience for those visiting Town facilities, by following the “Employee Handbook.” In addition, the Town supports a workplace that is conductive to personal safety and security and is free from intimidation, threats or violent acts. The Town does not tolerate workplace violence, including the threat of violence by anyone who conducts business with the Town.
The Town will not tolerate harassing conduct that affects employment conditions, that interferes unreasonably with an individual’s performance or that creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive work environment.
Complying with this Code of Conduct is required by all people doing business with Town employees.
Violators who do not comply with this policy may be asked to leave the premises.
Expected conduct includes showing respect for others, building facilities and personal property of others.
“Use common courtesy when interacting with others,” the policy states. “Do not engage in any lewd or offensive behavior.”
Any form of violence is prohibited under the policy, as is smoking, drinking alcohol or appearing to be under the influence of any illegal substance.
Visitors are asked to “avoid causing disturbances, disruptions or roaming from office to office.”
Repeated violations may result in permanent suspension of facility privileges.
Fox said the policy will be posted on the town website, as well as in Town Hall and will be included in the employee handbook.
