The Department is in the process of reviewing its programs and services in order to provide for an effective, efficient and elegant state government.  Specifically, the Department is focused on the goal of making it easier to do business with DPA and the State as well as making human resource services within the State more responsive. This review will include an assessment of the effectiveness of the Ombuds program.  At this time, Karen Schaefer, the State Ombuds, has been reassigned to join the staff of the Colorado State Employees Assistance Program.  If you need assistance with workplace and/or personal issues, please contact CSEAP at 303 866-4314 or 800 821-8154.

Mission

The Ombuds (pronouced "Ahm-buhds") Office for the State of Colorado classified employees was created May 14, 2007 to serve as an alternate communication and conflict resolution resource in addressing workplace conflict.  The purpose of the Ombuds Office is to help every voice in the State Personnel System to be heard and receive impartial attention without fear of reprisal, retaliation, or loss of privacy.  Any State Personnel employee, supervisor, and manager or anyone who supervises state personnel system employee may obtain assistance in surfacing and resolving state work-related issues.

 The State Ombuds Office is founded on four ethical principles established by the International Ombudsman Association and serves as an independent, confidential, neutral, and informal resource to the diverse state government workforce.  This Office advocates for a fair and equitably administered conflict management system and supports systemic changes to achieve this goal. 

State Personnel Rules  

Appeal Form  

State Performance Management Programs