Greenburgh Expands Background Checks for New Hires
By Jon Craig
The Town of Greenburgh, saying it wants all its employees held to the same hiring standards while keeping children safe, is expanding its use of background checks.
Greenburgh Supervisor Paul Feiner said nothing triggered the change, which was suggested about a year ago by the town’s Commissioner of Parks.
“It’s nice to know the kids are safe,’’ Feiner said.
The town now requires all new and rehired seasonal workers ages 18 and older, and all new full-time and part-time public employees to undergo the checks. They are consistent with what is now required of town managers and public officials, Feiner said.
According to a resolution passed by the Town Board, the change helps “preserve the safety and well being of the public and government employees.”
Prior to an offer of employment, the candidate’s application will be sent to the contractor selected by the Town to perform a criminal background check. The background screening shall include but not be limited to Social Security verification, address traces and criminal record checks.
Applicants will be denied employment if convicted of a sex offense or violent felony, and all other felonies within 10 years. Violent misdemeanors within five years, and more than one drug or alcohol offense also may bar employment, according to the town’s resolution.
All information gathered by the screening is to be kept confidential, and there is an appeals process.
Adam has worked in the local news industry for the past two decades in Westchester County and the broader Hudson Valley. Read more from Adam’s author bio here.
