Because of the relationship between the Town and the Town municipal court, town judges must exercise care to insure that the adjudication process remains free from the influence of any person or institution having responsibility for judicial appointments or funding. While any judge may listen to the counsel of others, decisions regarding the resolution of a particular case must be made by the judge in the exercise of a free and unfettered judgment. Decisions regarding the overall function of the court are the sole responsibility of the presiding judge. The authority of the presiding judge for making decisions regarding the overall function of the court applies to decisions concerning handling of court mail and records, hiring, supervision, discipline and dismissal of court personnel. Decisions regarding hiring, supervision and dismissal of court personnel must be consistent with municipal personnel policy. Personnel rules adopted by the Town for employment, grievance procedures, termination, sick leave, overtime, vacation time and other items are applicable to employees of the Town municipal court. In employing additional personnel, the existing town personnel procedures shall be followed. The presiding judge shall have exclusive supervisory authority over all court personnel. However, nonjudicial functions, such as custodial and maintenance services assigned to the Town municipal court may be performed by employees or contractors working under the supervision and authority designated by the Town council. (02-03, Amended, 03/21/2002)