§ 2-193. Powers and duties of the Commission.

(a)

The Commission shall have authority and power to make such surveys and studies concerning human relations, conditions and problems as it may determine, and to promote in every way possible the betterment of human relations. In making such studies and surveys, the Commission shall be authorized to expend any funds which may be provided for in regular or supplementary appropriations. On the basis of such studies or surveys, the Commission shall recommend to the County Executive and/or the Council additional legislation or changes in existing legislation as may be deemed appropriate.

(b)

Whenever any pattern and/or serious incident or incidents of discrimination arise, the Commission may immediately hold an informal investigatory hearing. The purpose of the hearing shall be to resolve the problem promptly by the gathering of all the facts from all available sources and to make such recommendations as may be necessary.

(c)

The Commission shall in writing inform any person filing any charge or complaint of the disposition of his complaint.

(d)

Whenever a Panel of the Commission has received reliable information from any person, and after proper investigation, it is determined by the Panel that a violation of this Division has occurred, any member of the Panel shall have the authority, upon a majority vote of the full Panel, to initiate a complaint in the name of a Panel member.

(e)

If at any time after a complaint has been filed the Commission determines that appropriate civil action to preserve the status quo or to prevent such irreparable harm is necessary, the Commission may transmit the matter to the County Attorney for necessary action to preserve such status quo or to prevent such irreparable harm, including, but not limited to, temporary restraining orders and preliminary injunction.

(CB-1-1972; CB-30-1990)