Employee Relations
The city of Richmond strives to offer all employees a safe, productive and
comfortable workplace. Employees are encouraged to communicate with their
supervisors and co-workers to ensure that the workplace will be comfortable for all.
When additional support is needed in working with supervisors or other employees, staff
members of the Human Resources Department are available to answer employee questions
about policies and procedures and to assist in situations where conflicts or differences arise.
The goal of the Employee Relations Program is to provide timely and comprehensive
consultation, investigation, and resolution of grievances, disciplinary actions, and
complaints to the organization so that actions comply with laws, regulations and policies.
The city of Richmond has a Personnel Board that hears grievances for
classified employees.
The city's Personnel Rules and
Administrative Regulations provide excellent
guidance for supervisors in dealing with many employee issues. Additional resources
are available by contacting the HR Solutions Center.
When differences between co-workers cannot be resolved, the city's
Mediation Program or Dispute Resolution Process
may be utilized. Mediation is a voluntary, confidential
and non-adversarial method of settling disputes in which a neutral party assists the
parties in negotiating a mutually beneficial and agreeable settlement.
The city recognizes the impact personal problems may have on an employee's work performance,
attendance and conduct. In order to provide assistance with these problems, the city offers
professional counseling services through a contracted
Employee Assistance Program (REAP).
This service is available to all family members, as well as employees.
The REAP program is available to help those who are experiencing difficulties with work,
family, finances or other areas of their lives. Employees may be referred through their
agency or they may utilize the employee assistance services voluntarily. REAP can be
reached by phone at (804)270-1550 or (800)223-2515.
For other questions regarding these programs, please contact the HR Solutions Center at (804)646-5660.
