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12B – The Written Directive System Policy & Procedure Page 2 of 15 DEFINITIONS A. Manual: A loose leaf 3-ring binder will be located in multiple locations within the police station (Commanding Officers office, Dispatch Operation Center, Report writing room, and Chief’s Office), containing the rules and regulations, job descriptions, policies and procedures of the Lexington Police Department. There will also be an electronic version of the manual located on the Department’s website. B. Directive:As used generally in this policy, “directive” shall refer to written directives, policies, procedures, rules, regulations and other documents of guidance issued under the authority of the Chief of Police or designee. C. General Orders:General Orders are permanent written directives outlining policy matters, which affect the entire Department. A General Order is the most authoritative written order the Department issues, and may be used to amend, supersede or cancel any previous order. General Orders remain in full force and effect until amended, superseded or rescinded by the Chief of Police. General Orders may be issued by the Chief of Police or his designee. D. Memoranda: (Generally entitled “Memorandum” or “Memo”) An announcement of a happening, event, or information of use to another Department member. Memos are typically addressed to one or several individuals and do not require special authorization. However, memos distributed throughout the Department shall be properly authorized before distribution. Memoranda may be issued by the Chief of Police or designee. E. Personnel Orders: Personnel orders are those pertaining to such matters as assignments, change of duty, administrative matters relating to conditions of employment, and employee rights and benefits. Personnel Orders are usually issued by the Chief of Police, a Captain or a designee. F. Policies:Policies summarize the Department’s position on specific matters. Policies are concise position statements based on underlying organizational principles, goals, values, and operational philosophies. They are designed for broad general direction and guidance, primarily designed for use by all members of the Department or by more than one operational division. Policies are issued by the Chief of Police. G. Procedures:Procedures build on the foundation of policy statements to provide specific guidance on required, desired, or preferred methods of operations or conduct. Procedures are more detailed instructions; the means and methods for carrying out the policy directive and generally draw the boundaries of officer discretion in performing specific tasks or duties. Procedures are issued by the Chief of Police. In practice, the Department usually issues a policy with the applicable procedures as a combined document.