§ 62-82. Severance payments.

(a)

Except as provided in subsection (c) of this section, the mayor may authorize lump-sum severance payments in an amount of up to 12 weeks of the employee's compensation and benefits, except car allowance, as of the date of separation from the service of the city, to certain classifications of employees being terminated, or whose resignation is requested, at the convenience of the government. Unless otherwise authorized by the city's civil service rules, collective bargaining agreements, or other contractual agreements, no severance pay beyond 12 weeks nor any extension of employee benefits beyond 12 weeks shall be provided to terminated employees without the approval of the city commission.

(b)

Any employee who receives a severance payment shall execute a release, approved as to form and substance by the city attorney, as a condition to such payment.

(c)

Severance payments shall not be made in the following circumstances:

(1)

The employee is terminated for dishonesty, theft, willful misconduct, harassment in violation of city policy, or being under the influence of illicit drugs or alcohol at work.

(2)

The employee is terminated by retirement, disability, unsolicited resignation, or death.

(3)

The employee's termination is due to arrest or conviction on criminal charges related or unrelated to employment with the city.

(4)

Any termination within 12 weeks prior to the end of the term of the mayor.

(Code 1979, § 2-236)