Uniform Update

*Important*

Inspector Cooper has issued a memo stating that detention personnel have until "February 28, 2008 to comply with wearing all black leather gear..."

Our contract states:

"Article 32, Section 2.If the basic clothing provided by the EMPLOYER is changed in type, color or style by order of the EMPLOYER, the EMPLOYER will bear any replacement cost in excess of $65.00 per calendar year, the employee to be responsible for the first $65.00 of replacement cost."

The Union's position in conformance to the contract is that the employer is to pay 100% of costs for employees under one year and detention techs, and all but the first $65 for all detention deputies who have completed one year. THIS INCLUDES SHOES! Also note the contract says "replacement," not dye.

While inspector Cooper's memo does not state what the revised policy is, I would advise our members to hold off on switching to black leather until we are sure the new policy conforms to our Agreement with Hennepin County.