City Council Proposes Third Party Ethics Reporting Hotline for Employee Concerns

During the City of Watertown Council Work Session on August 25, 2025, council members discussed the potential implementation of a third-party ethics reporting hotline aimed at enhancing transparency and accountability within city operations. This initiative stems from concerns raised during the Home Rule Charter Committee's reporting, highlighting the need for a reliable mechanism for residents and employees to report issues anonymously.

Council members expressed strong support for the idea, with one member sharing personal experiences that underscored a lack of confidence in traditional Human Resources systems. The proposed hotline would serve as an independent channel for reporting ethical concerns, ensuring that employees feel safe and supported when voicing their issues.

Additionally, the council reviewed existing procedures for handling administrative appeals, such as those related to city ordinances. A local attorney has been engaged to act as an administrative law judge for these cases, providing a structured approach to resolving disputes that arise from city decisions.

The discussion concluded with a commitment to further explore the third-party hotline concept, with plans to seek input from the South Dakota Municipal League, which may offer resources and guidance for municipalities considering similar initiatives.

As the meeting wrapped up, the council moved into an executive session, indicating ongoing discussions about sensitive matters that require confidentiality. The outcomes of these discussions will likely shape future council actions and community engagement strategies.