Columbia Laid-off/demoted employees ordinance (§ 19-166)

(a) Present full-time permanent employees laid off or reduced to a lower classification due to a reduction in force or reassignment of priorities, duties, or projects shall be placed at the top of the proper certification list and shall rank ahead of non-city employed individuals competing for the same positions.

(b) Permanent employees wishing to voluntary demote with the consent of the department head and director, may do so when all the following conditions are met:

(1) There is a vacant position available.

(2) The employee has previously successfully completed a probationary/qualifying period in the vacant position requested.

(3) There has been no gap in service since the successful completion of the probationary/qualifying period in the vacant position requested.

(4) Upon reappointment to the new classification, the employee shall be required to successfully complete a probationary or qualifying period of at least six (6) continuous months duration.