[Added by L.L. No. 8-1971]
[1]
Editor's Note: Former Art. X-B, Department of Public Welfare, consisting of §§ 126-a, 126-b and 126-c, was repealed by L.L. No. 44-1961.
There is hereby established an Office of Consumer Protection in Mount Vernon.
The Superintendent of Weights and Measures shall be the Coordinator of Consumer Protection. In addition to those powers and duties conferred upon him as the Sealer of Weights and Measures of the City of Mount Vernon by the laws of this state, he shall have the powers and duties prescribed by this local law and such other related duties including, but not limited to, matters for the protection of consumers as may be prescribed by local law.
[Amended by L.L. No. 1-1972]
The Office of Consumer Protection through the Superintendent of Weights and Measures and subject to appropriations made therefor by the City Council of Mount Vernon shall have power to:
1. 
Receive and investigate complaints and initiate his own investigation of frauds or unfair dealings against consumers.
2. 
To represent the interest of consumers before administrative and regulatory agencies and legislative groups.
3. 
Assist, advise and cooperate with local, state and federal agencies and officials to protect and promote the interests of the Mount Vernon consumer public.
4. 
Conduct investigations, research, studies and analyses of matters affecting the interests of Mount Vernon consumers.
5. 
Study the operation of state and local laws for consumer protection and to recommend amendments of such laws for the protection of consumers.
6. 
Report to the appropriate law enforcement agencies any information concerning violations of any consumer protection laws.
7. 
Assist, develop and conduct programs of consumer education and information through publications and other informational and educational material prepared for dissemination to the consumer public of Mount Vernon in order to increase the competence of consumers and to raise the general standard of living.
8. 
Undertake activities to encourage local business and industry to maintain high standards of honesty, fair business practices, and public responsibility in the production, promotion and sale of consumer goods and services.
9. 
Cooperate with other agencies, public and private, in the development of standards and quality grades for consumer goods and services.
10. 
Exercise and perform such other functions, powers and duties as may be deemed necessary or appropriate to protect and promote the welfare of Mount Vernon consumers.
11. 
Report monthly to the City Council of Mount Vernon, in writing, the activities and the recommendations of the Office.
There is hereby created an Advisory Committee on Consumer Affairs, consisting of five representatives who shall reflect a cross section of consumer and business interests, to be appointed by the Mayor of the City of Mount Vernon for a term of three years. One member shall be designated by the Mayor as Chairman. Members shall serve without compensation but shall be reimbursed for the expenses actually incurred by them in the performance of their duties. The Committee shall assist and advise the Director in his duties and functions under this title.