The Breezy Point Police Department created a union in
2010. The first contract was negotiated
and due to expire the end of 2014. As
essential employees under the law the contract continues under the same terms
as the city and union negotiate a new contract.
A committee of two council members and two staff members met with the
union a few times to discuss the requests of both parties.
The union’s request was largely economic in nature however
they also wanted a couple of changes in the terms of the agreement. The request of the city was largely that of
clarifying language, amending some of the terms of the agreement, and also to
address an issue regarding holiday pay. Economic
considerations that were important to the city were discussed as well. Other considerations that came into play were
what the neighboring jurisdictions did in their contracts with their police
unions.
The changes made include a total of 17 points. Economic considerations included an increase
in base wage rates of 3.5% for each of the three years of the contract. Shift
differential was awarded for evening hours.
Paramedic compensation was increased from 6% to 7% of base salary. Compensation for court time, call back and
holiday time were amended to address in a different manner more favorable to
the employer. The use of sick and
vacation time was also restricted in some situations.
In the end a good deal of give and take was evident. Some may say the union got what they wanted
and others could look at what was accomplished from the employer’s
perspective. They call it negotiations
for a reason. I’ve been told if both
sides are sort of OK with the outcome but also a little disappointed it
probably is a sign of a good agreement.
The agreement was approved and terms are now defined for the next three
years.
