Section 2504.350  Appeals

a)         If, after receiving the response of the Chief Administrative Officer, the youth still feels that the problem, complaint or grievance has not been resolved to his or her satisfaction, he or she may appeal in writing to the Director within 30 days after the date of the decision.  Copies of the Grievance Officer's report and the Chief Administrative Officer's decision should be attached.

b)         The Director shall review the grievance and the responses of the Grievance Officer and Chief Administrative Officer and shall determine whether the grievance requires a hearing before the Administrative Review Board.  If it is determined that the grievance is without merit or can be resolved without a hearing, the youth shall be advised of this disposition, in writing.

c)         An Administrative Review Board shall be appointed by the Director.  One member of the Board may be a citizen from the community.  A Department member shall be designated as chairperson.

d)         The Administrative Review Board shall meet as frequently as necessary and may schedule hearings on grievances.  Hearings may be conducted in person or via video or telephonic conference. The Board may call witnesses or examine records at its discretion.

e)         The Administrative Review Board shall submit to the Director a written report of its findings and recommendations.

f)         The Director shall review the findings and recommendations of the Board and make a final determination of the grievance within 6 months after receipt of the appealed grievance, where reasonably feasible under the circumstances.  The youth shall be sent a copy of the Director's decision.

g)         In those instances where a youth is appealing a grievance determined by the Chief Administrative Officer to be of an emergency nature, the Administrative Review Board shall expedite processing of the grievance.