Model Employment Practices Policies and Procedures Manual
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Every two years, the MEL distributes a model personnel policies and procedures manual, employee handbook, as well as model resolutions and ordinances. Below are copies of the newly revised models updated to reflect suggestions from the members, statutory changes and court decisions.
Personnel Policies & Procedures
Model Personnel Policies Manual: Non-Civil Service (Revised 2023)
Model Personnel Policies Manual: Civil Service (Revised 2023)
Synopsis of Changes (2023)
Sample Resolution for Cert for EEOC Criminal Background Check Compliance
Memo: “Equal Pay and Paid Sick Leave Laws and Diane B. Allen Equal Pay Act”
Employee Handbook
Employee Handbook: Non-Civil Service (2023)
Employee Handbook: Civil Service (2023)
Volunteer Handbook
New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development
(These exhibits have been updated for 2021/2022 as of June 30, 2020)
Each member local unit may adapt these models for their particular organization. Where the model uses the term “local unit type,” insert Township, Borough, Village, Authority, etc., as appropriate.
For most local units, the “CEO title” is the full-time Manager, Administrator or Executive Director and not an elected official except in a few municipalities such as Strong-Mayor Faulkner Act or Commissioner forms. Even many of these towns have a full-time professional CEO with the title of Manager or Administrator. In small local units, the CEO may be the Clerk.
The Personnel Administrator assists the CEO in the implementation of personnel practices. This is typically the Human Resources Director, the Clerk, the CFO or the CEO’s assistant. Insert the appropriate title in the model. In many relatively small local units, especially small authorities, the CEO also performs the personnel administration functions. In these cases, modify or delete references to the personnel administrator.
Advice concerning personnel matters is usually provided by an Employment Attorney or an Employment Advisor. However, the local unit may designate its General Counsel if experienced in employment matters. Where the model uses the term “Employment Attorney/Advisor title” insert the appropriate title.
These sample policies and procedures are not intended to be all-encompassing and are believed to conform to current law and practice at the time of printing. However, municipalities and authorities are cautioned to seek legal advice from a qualified employment attorney before adopting any employment policies and procedures.
The MEL wishes to thank the numerous members and professionals who contributed their time and talent to prepare these models. The MEL Model Personnel Committee and the Safety and Education Committee will continue its work to keep the models and training programs as up to date as possible. We encourage you to contact the MEL office if you wish to participate in this process.