Cary council adopts anti‑retaliation policy, including tip‑line and implementation steps

The Cary Town Council unanimously adopted a stand‑alone anti‑retaliation policy (Policy Statement 190) on July 23 that is intended to strengthen protections for employees who report improper activities.

Interim Town Manager Russ Overton said Cary previously relied on scattered policies — anti‑harassment, nondiscrimination and grievance procedures — but lacked a single comprehensive anti‑retaliation policy. The new policy establishes protections, calls for development of an implementing standard procedure, and directs staff to research and establish a confidential tip line and periodic training.

“There is no direct fiscal impact associated with approving this policy,” Overton said, but noted a tip‑line service could have recurring costs and staff will return with budget recommendations if necessary.

Council members expressed support for the effort and some regret that confidential employee surveys had not been performed during the earlier review period. Several members asked that implementation include periodic reporting to the council on usage metrics (calls received, aggregate outcomes) while protecting confidentiality of individual reporters.

The policy was adopted by voice vote with unanimous support, and staff said they will prepare the standard procedure, identify reporting metrics that preserve confidentiality, and implement employee training.