THIS IS AN OFFICIAL NEWS SITE FOR CURRENT AND RETIRED CORRECTIONS OFFICERS! This blog will keep up on current events affecting Detention Deputies and Corrections Officers. SINCE 2006!
Friday, December 18, 2009
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Press Release: No Confidence in Sheriff Stanek
PRESS RELEASE
The Teamsters Local 320 Union member Detention Deputy and Technicians employed at the Hennepin County Jail have taken a VOTE OF NO CONFIDENCE against Hennepin County Sheriff Richard Stanek and his ability to run the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office Jail Division.
The text of the vote signed by the Teamsters Local 320 union members reads:
LETTER OF NO CONFIDENCE IN SHERIFF RICHARD STANEK
We the undersigned represent the majority of the Teamsters Local 320 Detention Deputies and Detention Technicians employed at the Hennepin County Public Safety Facility. The administration of Hennepin County Sheriff Richard Stanek is anti-union and anti-employee. The Sheriff’s Administration under Richard Stanek has imposed a schedule that has created hardship amongst the Union employees and has repeatedly not abided by promises made during Meet and Confer meetings with Teamsters Local 320 including not abiding by the agreement as to the number of employees allowed off for vacation time, has repeatedly changed posted schedules after employees have made plans without regard for their personal lives or those of their families and has engaged in excessive discipline of Union members. We the undersigned have NO CONFIDENCE IN THE ADMINISTRATION OF HENNEPIN COUNTY SHERIFF RICHARD STANEK and sign of our own free will.
CONTACT: WADE LASZLO
Chief Steward Teamsters Local 320
Hennepin County Jail Bargaining Unit 763/807-6668
Email: steward320@msn.com
CONTACT: TOM PERKINS
Business Agent Teamsters Local 320
612/378-8716
Saturday, December 12, 2009
A Call To Arms
All Teamsters who can come to the assistance of our Teamster police officers in Albert Lea, Minnesota are urged to come to the rally on Monday, December 14th at 5 PM.
The City of Albert Lea is threatening to lay off Teamster police officers even after they agreed to a temporary 50% cut in benefits. Not enough for the City of Albert Lea.
Teamsters Local 320 Business agent Mike Golen said, “This is a public safety issue. The amount of police the city will have left will be below minimums to protect the city.”
Please join in solidarity with the Teamster Freeborn County deputies and correctional officers as well as the Teamsters Albert Lea police at this rally.
Meet at 5 PM at the Moose Lodge in Albert Lea. Burgers will be provided.
6:30 March on City Hall
The Moose Lodge is located at:
328 Main Ct, Albert Lea, MN 56007
For more information contact Mike Golen
612 849-4318
The City of Albert Lea is threatening to lay off Teamster police officers even after they agreed to a temporary 50% cut in benefits. Not enough for the City of Albert Lea.
Teamsters Local 320 Business agent Mike Golen said, “This is a public safety issue. The amount of police the city will have left will be below minimums to protect the city.”
Please join in solidarity with the Teamster Freeborn County deputies and correctional officers as well as the Teamsters Albert Lea police at this rally.
Meet at 5 PM at the Moose Lodge in Albert Lea. Burgers will be provided.
6:30 March on City Hall
The Moose Lodge is located at:
328 Main Ct, Albert Lea, MN 56007
For more information contact Mike Golen
612 849-4318
Thursday, December 03, 2009
Teamster Harold Yates has passed on
Retired local Teamster executive Harold Yates died Monday and will be buried Friday. He was 75.
His union career started in 1960, driving trucks for Admiral Merchant.
His first stint as a union official came in 1967, when he was elected recording secretary for Teamsters Local 120. He served as vice president before being elected president in 1972. He was re-elected several times until he retired in 1998.
He also served as a Teamsters international representative and president of Teamsters MN Joint Council 32.
Full Story
Obituary
Visitation at the WULFF WOODBURY FUNERAL HOME, 2195 Woodlane Drive on Thursday, Dec. 3, 2009 from 4-9 PM. Mass of Christion Burial at TRANSFIGURATION CATHOLIC CHURCH, 6133 15th St. N., Oakdale on Friday, Dec. 4, 2009 at 10 AM. Visitation at the church one hour prior to Mass. Interment Union Cemetery, Maplewood, MN. Memorials preferred. WULFF WOODBURY 651-738-9615
His union career started in 1960, driving trucks for Admiral Merchant.
His first stint as a union official came in 1967, when he was elected recording secretary for Teamsters Local 120. He served as vice president before being elected president in 1972. He was re-elected several times until he retired in 1998.
He also served as a Teamsters international representative and president of Teamsters MN Joint Council 32.
Full Story
Obituary
Visitation at the WULFF WOODBURY FUNERAL HOME, 2195 Woodlane Drive on Thursday, Dec. 3, 2009 from 4-9 PM. Mass of Christion Burial at TRANSFIGURATION CATHOLIC CHURCH, 6133 15th St. N., Oakdale on Friday, Dec. 4, 2009 at 10 AM. Visitation at the church one hour prior to Mass. Interment Union Cemetery, Maplewood, MN. Memorials preferred. WULFF WOODBURY 651-738-9615
Tuesday, December 01, 2009
You can bank all 11 Holidays!
A brief history of Holidays in the jail.
Prior to January 2000 all Holidays in the jail were worked, and worked at straight time! We began a push in the mid 1990’s to have parity with all other county employees and have an equivalent number of days off.
Sheriff McGowen and the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office were sued. Our previous union LELS was decertified and we became Teamsters. Our first Teamsters contract secured the Holidays. This was not without a cost to us. The Sheriff’s Office was concerned about the cost of 11 additional days off (no more then every other county employee) but we gave up the 1.5% inconvenient work schedule pay in Article 3, section 3 of our Agreement to offset this perceived additional cost and get the Holiday benefit. That’s right, we took a 1.5% pay cut to have this.
The contract was very specific, employees who work a designated Holiday “should receive a deferred holiday off for each holiday .” The HCSO under Sheriff McGowan then began to pay us cash equivalent rather then letting us have a deferred holiday off.
A grievance was filed which led to the LETTER OF UNDERSTANDING in our agreement which allowed us to bank up to 24 hours of deferred holiday and the employer to cash out balances over 24 hours.
This LETTER OF UNDERSTANDING is no longer in effect. The Letter states: The parties agree to the following interpretation regarding holiday pay under Article 11 for Detention Deputies who are assigned to a 6-3 schedule of 8.5 hour days
NO 6/3, NO CAP ON DEFERRED HOLIDAYS OFF!
YOU CAN BANK ALL HOLIDAYS WORKED AS DEFERRED!
Further more they must let you take deferred holidays off within six months of earning them. They cannot cash out a deferred holiday on the books. (Article 11, sec. C)
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
Prior to January 2000 all Holidays in the jail were worked, and worked at straight time! We began a push in the mid 1990’s to have parity with all other county employees and have an equivalent number of days off.
Sheriff McGowen and the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office were sued. Our previous union LELS was decertified and we became Teamsters. Our first Teamsters contract secured the Holidays. This was not without a cost to us. The Sheriff’s Office was concerned about the cost of 11 additional days off (no more then every other county employee) but we gave up the 1.5% inconvenient work schedule pay in Article 3, section 3 of our Agreement to offset this perceived additional cost and get the Holiday benefit. That’s right, we took a 1.5% pay cut to have this.
The contract was very specific, employees who work a designated Holiday “should receive a deferred holiday off for each holiday .” The HCSO under Sheriff McGowan then began to pay us cash equivalent rather then letting us have a deferred holiday off.
A grievance was filed which led to the LETTER OF UNDERSTANDING in our agreement which allowed us to bank up to 24 hours of deferred holiday and the employer to cash out balances over 24 hours.
This LETTER OF UNDERSTANDING is no longer in effect. The Letter states: The parties agree to the following interpretation regarding holiday pay under Article 11 for Detention Deputies who are assigned to a 6-3 schedule of 8.5 hour days
NO 6/3, NO CAP ON DEFERRED HOLIDAYS OFF!
YOU CAN BANK ALL HOLIDAYS WORKED AS DEFERRED!
Further more they must let you take deferred holidays off within six months of earning them. They cannot cash out a deferred holiday on the books. (Article 11, sec. C)
HAPPY HOLIDAYS!
Monday, November 23, 2009
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
TB in local jails
Ex-inmate's suit says jail ignored TB signs
In a federal lawsuit filed Monday, the claimant alleges that Ramsey County jail staff ignored obvious symptoms, leaving him disabled.
Full Story: Star Tribune
In a federal lawsuit filed Monday, the claimant alleges that Ramsey County jail staff ignored obvious symptoms, leaving him disabled.
Full Story: Star Tribune
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Sunday, November 08, 2009
Hoffa Opposes Tax on our Healthcare
Teamsters President James Hoffa estimates that the tax would affect the health care plans of "hundreds of thousands" of his 1.4 million members.
"We oppose the excise tax because it will be passed on to our people," Hoffa told POLITICO. "We will oppose it in the Senate. We will oppose it in the House. We will oppose it in conference."
Go Hoffa!
Read more: http://www.pittsburghpost-gazette.com/pg/09280/1003592-473.stm#ixzz0WKEo5RIs
"We oppose the excise tax because it will be passed on to our people," Hoffa told POLITICO. "We will oppose it in the Senate. We will oppose it in the House. We will oppose it in conference."
Go Hoffa!
Read more: http://www.pittsburghpost-gazette.com/pg/09280/1003592-473.stm#ixzz0WKEo5RIs
Saturday, November 07, 2009
Possible Layoffs at the Workhouse!
The following was sent to me by their Chief Steward:
There has been a proposal that will be at this budget meeting to close the Work Release building at the ACF and put most of the inmates on Home Monitoring. If this occurs and it is not put back in the budget on Dec. 3 there will be lay offs of Senior Correctional Officers, Correctional Officers, Food Service Workers and Clerical staff. Please pass this on to anyone who may be able to attend.
Thanks,
Dean
They are rallying at the Government Center on Nov. 19th. I'd encourage all of you that can to assist our fellow Correctional Officers.
Here's their Flyer:
Important Public Safety
Meeting On:
Thursday November 19th -- 1 PM to 4 PM
At the Hennepin County Government Center
In the Commissioners Board Room on the 24th Floor.
Local 1719 will pay your Parking and Mileage for members to attend.
Wear Green.
Or
Wear your Uniform. YES, it is okay to wear your uniform.
Make your presence known!!!
Whether you live in Hennepin County or Not,
attend this meeting to show your loyalty to the ACF and that you care about Public Safety and the Community.
We should see Officers, Supervisors, management, Clerks, Probation Officers, civilian staff...
everyone should show up to this Public Meeting.
Notify your family, friends, and neighbors as well.
And don’t forget to call the Commissioners in the mean-time.
There has been a proposal that will be at this budget meeting to close the Work Release building at the ACF and put most of the inmates on Home Monitoring. If this occurs and it is not put back in the budget on Dec. 3 there will be lay offs of Senior Correctional Officers, Correctional Officers, Food Service Workers and Clerical staff. Please pass this on to anyone who may be able to attend.
Thanks,
Dean
They are rallying at the Government Center on Nov. 19th. I'd encourage all of you that can to assist our fellow Correctional Officers.
Here's their Flyer:
Important Public Safety
Meeting On:
Thursday November 19th -- 1 PM to 4 PM
At the Hennepin County Government Center
In the Commissioners Board Room on the 24th Floor.
Local 1719 will pay your Parking and Mileage for members to attend.
Wear Green.
Or
Wear your Uniform. YES, it is okay to wear your uniform.
Make your presence known!!!
Whether you live in Hennepin County or Not,
attend this meeting to show your loyalty to the ACF and that you care about Public Safety and the Community.
We should see Officers, Supervisors, management, Clerks, Probation Officers, civilian staff...
everyone should show up to this Public Meeting.
Notify your family, friends, and neighbors as well.
And don’t forget to call the Commissioners in the mean-time.
Wednesday, November 04, 2009
Hennepin County's Offer
Here's the low lights of the County's offer to us:
Cost of living raise: 0% for 2010 and 2011
No step increases for 2010 and 2011 (What I find particularly insulting about this is that "steps" were originally a way to save the employer money by not having to pay you what the job is worth for a few years. Fine eliminate the steps and pay everyone top pay!)
Health Care to go up. Higher co-pays, singles to pay $50 a month, family monthly rate to stay the same. The usual passing the cost onto us at the same time they won't even offer a cost of living raise. Can you say, "Shrinking check?"
They offer $150 lump sum fee for 2010 and 2011 to employees making less then $18.00 an hour. Like that's going to make up for freezing your wages!
Freeze Stability Pay for 2010 and 2011. We all know this isn't a freeze but a fucking take back!
NEW: Limited Duration Appointments. "A non-permanent appointment which is expected to last less than two (2) years, including employees whose work schedules are non-continuous or irregular in nature. Such appointments may be extended with the approval of the Human Resources Director." Are you kidding me? This is just abuse waiting to happen.
So there you have it. My editorial comments are in red.
We are considered essential employees. Essential to Hennepin County simply means you can't strike and they can change your schedule at will! They offer us the same plate of shit they offer everyone else. Two contracts ago we voluntarily accepted a "once in a lifetime" wage freeze. Since then how many of us have been bit by inmates, punched, kicked, spit on? How many have turned positive for tuberculosis? All of us worked a very long stretch, some as many as 15 days straight, of 12 hour days during the RNC. Our thanks? The 28 day schedule that disrupted our lives and this bullshit offer. I'm sorry, do I sound pissed off?
Cost of living raise: 0% for 2010 and 2011
No step increases for 2010 and 2011 (What I find particularly insulting about this is that "steps" were originally a way to save the employer money by not having to pay you what the job is worth for a few years. Fine eliminate the steps and pay everyone top pay!)
Health Care to go up. Higher co-pays, singles to pay $50 a month, family monthly rate to stay the same. The usual passing the cost onto us at the same time they won't even offer a cost of living raise. Can you say, "Shrinking check?"
They offer $150 lump sum fee for 2010 and 2011 to employees making less then $18.00 an hour. Like that's going to make up for freezing your wages!
Freeze Stability Pay for 2010 and 2011. We all know this isn't a freeze but a fucking take back!
NEW: Limited Duration Appointments. "A non-permanent appointment which is expected to last less than two (2) years, including employees whose work schedules are non-continuous or irregular in nature. Such appointments may be extended with the approval of the Human Resources Director." Are you kidding me? This is just abuse waiting to happen.
So there you have it. My editorial comments are in red.
We are considered essential employees. Essential to Hennepin County simply means you can't strike and they can change your schedule at will! They offer us the same plate of shit they offer everyone else. Two contracts ago we voluntarily accepted a "once in a lifetime" wage freeze. Since then how many of us have been bit by inmates, punched, kicked, spit on? How many have turned positive for tuberculosis? All of us worked a very long stretch, some as many as 15 days straight, of 12 hour days during the RNC. Our thanks? The 28 day schedule that disrupted our lives and this bullshit offer. I'm sorry, do I sound pissed off?
Monday, November 02, 2009
Why Union's Need Lobbyist!
This is exactly the reason Union's need a presence at the Capitol like DRIVE.
The Star Tribune is reporting:
WASHINGTON - Those tax-free spending accounts that you and your co-workers use to help pay for dental work, insurance copayments or over-the-counter drugs face a hit under the health overhaul bills in Congress — unless a coalition that includes a powerful union, insurers and others can stop it.
The Star Tribune is reporting:
WASHINGTON - Those tax-free spending accounts that you and your co-workers use to help pay for dental work, insurance copayments or over-the-counter drugs face a hit under the health overhaul bills in Congress — unless a coalition that includes a powerful union, insurers and others can stop it.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Teamsters Oppose Tax on our healthcare
WASHINGTON, Sept. 16 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Teamsters General President Jim Hoffa today said the proposal to impose a 35 percent tax on insurers for individual health insurance plans worth more than $8,000 is unfair and unnecessary.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Holiday Cards and Care Packages for the Troops
Holiday Cards and Care Packages for the Troops
We will be making & addressing holiday cards and care packages for our troops and mailing them to deployed friends and colleagues from the Hennepin County Jail and to each branch of the military, to be distributed to others who need greetings and goodies around the holidays. If you would like to help by donating (a) cards, (b) items for care packages (See list of items needed), or (c) cash or a check to purchase items and pay for shipping, please contact Deputy Chris Mays before November 7th. Last year was a huge success, but we’d like to try to reach even more of our servicemen and women this year. Thank you!
Sincerely,
Former Deputy Brie Pileggi & Deputy Chris Mays
CARE PACKAGE ITEMS:
· FOOD: coffee, tea, hot cocoa, sugar packets, jerky, raisins, nuts, protein & granola bars, vitamins, koolaid mix, gum, hard candy, oreos, popcorn… (Please, no homemade foods, perishables, or items that will melt).
· CLOTHES (all sizes): socks, men & women’s underwear
· HYGIENE (compact, travel size): razor blades, toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, conditioner, combs, anti-bacterial wipes, hand sanitizer, deodorant, sunscreen, chapstick, shaving cream, kleenex, toilet paper, tampons, sanitary napkins, pony tail holders, lotion…
· WRITING SUPPLIES: pens, pencils, envelopes, paper, blank cards…
· ENTERTAINMENT: books, magazines, playing cards, CDs, DVDs, batteries, hand-held games, comics, puzzle books…
We will be making & addressing holiday cards and care packages for our troops and mailing them to deployed friends and colleagues from the Hennepin County Jail and to each branch of the military, to be distributed to others who need greetings and goodies around the holidays. If you would like to help by donating (a) cards, (b) items for care packages (See list of items needed), or (c) cash or a check to purchase items and pay for shipping, please contact Deputy Chris Mays before November 7th. Last year was a huge success, but we’d like to try to reach even more of our servicemen and women this year. Thank you!
Sincerely,
Former Deputy Brie Pileggi & Deputy Chris Mays
CARE PACKAGE ITEMS:
· FOOD: coffee, tea, hot cocoa, sugar packets, jerky, raisins, nuts, protein & granola bars, vitamins, koolaid mix, gum, hard candy, oreos, popcorn… (Please, no homemade foods, perishables, or items that will melt).
· CLOTHES (all sizes): socks, men & women’s underwear
· HYGIENE (compact, travel size): razor blades, toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap, shampoo, conditioner, combs, anti-bacterial wipes, hand sanitizer, deodorant, sunscreen, chapstick, shaving cream, kleenex, toilet paper, tampons, sanitary napkins, pony tail holders, lotion…
· WRITING SUPPLIES: pens, pencils, envelopes, paper, blank cards…
· ENTERTAINMENT: books, magazines, playing cards, CDs, DVDs, batteries, hand-held games, comics, puzzle books…
Friday, October 16, 2009
Sunday, October 11, 2009
H1N1 and Workers Comp
Must give the credit to Dave B. for uploading the file to our yahoo group:
In order for the flu to be a compensable event under comp, certain requirements must be met:
: the individual must be "in the course and scope of employment" when exposed to the virus
: the exposure must arise out of work (as opposed to being a totally random event)
: work itself must put the individual in harm's way
full story:
http://www.workerscompinsider.com/archives/001042.html
In order for the flu to be a compensable event under comp, certain requirements must be met:
: the individual must be "in the course and scope of employment" when exposed to the virus
: the exposure must arise out of work (as opposed to being a totally random event)
: work itself must put the individual in harm's way
full story:
http://www.workerscompinsider.com/archives/001042.html
Saturday, October 10, 2009
H1N1
By now you've received the Sheriff's Office plan for the H1N1 procedure. It calls upon us to do things we've not done in the past. Like with the RNC we will rise to the occasion as the professionals we are. While the plan may not be perfect it is better to prepare for the worst and hope for the best.
I find myself in agreement with Bill Sturgeon when he writes in his "For Those in the Field" column, H1N1 virus may, like the Y2K alarm, turn out to be a big bust, or it may turn out to be the most significant medical event in recent memory. It is better to be prepared than to be caught unprepared.
For those who fall into the high risk group or have infants at home I urge you to notify your supervisor if scheduled in a "red zone."
Overall I think they did a good job putting together the plan. My only disappointment is the reversal on the decision to release without bail non-violent misdemeanors. If it gets bad and we are short of staff and high on inmate count it may be too late to enact that aspect of the plan that got scrapped, and make no mistake it was not scrapped by the committee.
Most of you know I am not exactly known as a company man. I'm not shy about criticizing when I see something I believe is wrong. But on this I think the H1N1 committee did a good job. I hope it's not necessary, but if this H1N1 actually does take off it's better to have a plan in place then just wing it.
I find myself in agreement with Bill Sturgeon when he writes in his "For Those in the Field" column, H1N1 virus may, like the Y2K alarm, turn out to be a big bust, or it may turn out to be the most significant medical event in recent memory. It is better to be prepared than to be caught unprepared.
For those who fall into the high risk group or have infants at home I urge you to notify your supervisor if scheduled in a "red zone."
Overall I think they did a good job putting together the plan. My only disappointment is the reversal on the decision to release without bail non-violent misdemeanors. If it gets bad and we are short of staff and high on inmate count it may be too late to enact that aspect of the plan that got scrapped, and make no mistake it was not scrapped by the committee.
Most of you know I am not exactly known as a company man. I'm not shy about criticizing when I see something I believe is wrong. But on this I think the H1N1 committee did a good job. I hope it's not necessary, but if this H1N1 actually does take off it's better to have a plan in place then just wing it.
Thursday, October 08, 2009
Teamsters DRIVE Endorses Ramsey County Sheriff Bob Fletcher
Ramsey County Sheriff Bob Fletcher has been endorsed by Teamsters DRIVE.He supported our Correctional Officers Bill of Rights, our Pension, our Blood Borne Pathogens Bill and is the only Sheriff to testify at the State capital for Corrections Officers. Congratulations Sheriff Fletcher.
Off-duty corrections officer shot near home
CHICAGO
Authorities in Chicago say an off-duty Cook County Correctional Officer has been shot outside his home on the city's southwest side.
Steve Patterson, a spokesman for Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart identified the victim of the Wednesday night shooting as Correctional Officer Jacob Cano.
Patterson said Cano has worked at the Cook County Jail since 2003, and was leaving his home to begin his 11 p.m. shift when he was shot in the back by an unknown assailant.
Authorities in Chicago say an off-duty Cook County Correctional Officer has been shot outside his home on the city's southwest side.
Steve Patterson, a spokesman for Cook County Sheriff Tom Dart identified the victim of the Wednesday night shooting as Correctional Officer Jacob Cano.
Patterson said Cano has worked at the Cook County Jail since 2003, and was leaving his home to begin his 11 p.m. shift when he was shot in the back by an unknown assailant.
The Cook County Correctional Officer's are members of Teamsters Local 714
Tuesday, October 06, 2009
Arbitration Date
The arbitration date for the excessive discipline grievance is set for December 1st.
Sunday, October 04, 2009
Where are the bagpipes?
Corrections USA Demands Justice for Fallen Officers Family Highland
Highland Hills, Ohio: William Hesson, a 39 year old hero-Correctional Officer, military personnel, and dedicated family man was murdered in the line of duty at Cuyahoga Hills Juvenile Correctional Facility in Highland Hills, Ohio. He is the first officer to be killed during an assault in the 28 year history of the juvenile detention facility. His murder was the result of a severe beating at the hands of inmates.
The county and administration have added to the trauma of the family by refusing to pay any death in the line of duty benefits to his surviving pregnant spouse and three children. It is the administration's position that Officer Hesson had not served as a Correctional Officer long enough for his family to be entitled to these benefits.
Corrections USA Chairman, Jim Baiardi, called the actions of the administration despicable and incomprehensible. "When Officer Hesson was asked to wear a badge to protect public safety, he was never told that seconds, minutes, or days mattered, he was just told to do his job. Correctional Officers are heroes the minute they put on their badge. The Officers deserve to be treated as heroes and their families deserve to be compensated for their loss, regardless of how long the officer has been on the job. Officer Hesson died a hero, doing his job while protecting the public."
Highland Hills, Ohio: William Hesson, a 39 year old hero-Correctional Officer, military personnel, and dedicated family man was murdered in the line of duty at Cuyahoga Hills Juvenile Correctional Facility in Highland Hills, Ohio. He is the first officer to be killed during an assault in the 28 year history of the juvenile detention facility. His murder was the result of a severe beating at the hands of inmates.
The county and administration have added to the trauma of the family by refusing to pay any death in the line of duty benefits to his surviving pregnant spouse and three children. It is the administration's position that Officer Hesson had not served as a Correctional Officer long enough for his family to be entitled to these benefits.
Corrections USA Chairman, Jim Baiardi, called the actions of the administration despicable and incomprehensible. "When Officer Hesson was asked to wear a badge to protect public safety, he was never told that seconds, minutes, or days mattered, he was just told to do his job. Correctional Officers are heroes the minute they put on their badge. The Officers deserve to be treated as heroes and their families deserve to be compensated for their loss, regardless of how long the officer has been on the job. Officer Hesson died a hero, doing his job while protecting the public."
Where are the bagpipes we hear and see everytime a police officer gives his/her life in the line of duty? Apparently Correctional Officers sacrifices don't add up. This man's family doesn't even merit death benefits.
Prisoners found drinking anti-swine flu hand gel to get drunk
Prisoners found drinking anti-swine flu hand gel to get drunk
Hand gels supplied to a prison to combat the risk of swine flu have been removed after inmates realised it contained alcohol and began drinking it to try to get drunk. Guardian UK
Hand gels supplied to a prison to combat the risk of swine flu have been removed after inmates realised it contained alcohol and began drinking it to try to get drunk. Guardian UK
Saturday, October 03, 2009
Corrupt Politicians exposed on YouTube?
That's right some of our friends at the CCPOA have begun posting YouTube videos of corrupt politicians that relate to our profession, like these 2 corrupt judges on their CorrectionsUSA channel: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X6OxzV_ud2M
They're looking for more submissions!
They're looking for more submissions!
Saturday, September 26, 2009
CCPOA TV
The CCPOA, Calofornia Correctional Peace Officers Association is one of the toughest unions out there representing correctional officers. A model we can all be proud of! This is the latest from their site:
Today CCPOA is launching our First Watch Frontline News video reports so that we can get first hand information on important events out to you faster. We hope to post a new report a least once a month, or more often as important events happen that effect you...WATCH on CCPOA.TV
These videos show why correctional officers, "Walk the toughest beat!"
Today CCPOA is launching our First Watch Frontline News video reports so that we can get first hand information on important events out to you faster. We hope to post a new report a least once a month, or more often as important events happen that effect you...WATCH on CCPOA.TV
These videos show why correctional officers, "Walk the toughest beat!"
Friday, September 25, 2009
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Hennepin County Jail Swine Flu
Hennepin County makes move to reduce jail population for H1N1, then back-tracks.
Sheriff's spokeswoman Lisa Kiava said the court order resulted from a "general miscommunication" between Sheriff Rich Stanek's office and the courts. She was unable to say how or by whom it was miscommunicated to Wernick.
Minneapolis City Attorney Susan Segal said when she heard about the order, she contacted Wernick and told him it wasn't necessary now. The city handles many of the lower-level crimes. Segal said she understood Stanek's office requested the order "in good faith," but she opposes it -- for now. (Star Tribune)
Sheriff's spokeswoman Lisa Kiava said the court order resulted from a "general miscommunication" between Sheriff Rich Stanek's office and the courts. She was unable to say how or by whom it was miscommunicated to Wernick.
Minneapolis City Attorney Susan Segal said when she heard about the order, she contacted Wernick and told him it wasn't necessary now. The city handles many of the lower-level crimes. Segal said she understood Stanek's office requested the order "in good faith," but she opposes it -- for now. (Star Tribune)
I'm glad Minneapolis City Attorney Susan Segal is so knowledgable of Swine Flu and the jail's plan. Is she aware that there's a Special Order that we must stay home for seven days if we get flu like syptoms? How well will that work in a full jail?
Monday, September 21, 2009
Friday, September 18, 2009
Teamsters Local 320 Meeting
Teamsters Local 320 Meeting
September 25th, 2009
1200- 1300 and 1500-1600 hours
Teamsters Building
3001 University Ave. S.E.
Suite 5000
Minneapolis, MN 55414
Agenda:
Upcoming Contract
The 28 Day Schedule
Excessive Discipline
NO FAIR SHARE!
If you are unsure of your status call 612/378-8700 and inquire
September 25th, 2009
1200- 1300 and 1500-1600 hours
Teamsters Building
3001 University Ave. S.E.
Suite 5000
Minneapolis, MN 55414
Agenda:
Upcoming Contract
The 28 Day Schedule
Excessive Discipline
NO FAIR SHARE!
If you are unsure of your status call 612/378-8700 and inquire
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Arbitrator Picked
The arbitrator has been picked for the excessive discipline from a DWI. Just waitng for the date to be set now.
Sunday, September 06, 2009
Happy Labor Day
The first Labor Day in the United States was celebrated on September 5, 1882 in New York City.[1] In the aftermath of the deaths of a number of workers at the hands of the US military and US Marshals during the 1894 Pullman Strike, President Grover Cleveland put reconciliation with Labor as a top political priority. Fearing further conflict, legislation making Labor Day a national holiday was rushed through Congress unanimously and signed into law a mere six days after the end of the strike.[2] Cleveland was also concerned that aligning a US labor holiday with existing international May Day celebrations would stir up negative emotions linked to the Haymarket Affair.[3] All 50 U.S. states have made Labor Day a state holiday.
Happy Labor Day Teamsters, we have a proud history!
Join the Union
There are still a few Fair Share detention deputies out there. I will be putting the following letter and applications in their mail boxes this week:
Join the Union!
You’re getting this letter because you are listed as “Fair Share” not a member of Teamsters Local 320.
Why join the union?
1. The Contract. You get to vote on the contract. This upcoming contract will be very important because we will finally be able to craft some language that reflects the 28 day schedule.
2. Teamsters Legal Defense Fund. ALL full members are covered by the Teamsters Legal Defense Fund. This means if an inmate and/or the employer accuses you of a criminal or civil matter your legal expenses, lawyer fees and all are covered. Fair Share are on their own. Would you drive a car without insurance?
3. Solidarity. Fair Share tells the employer you don’t care and weakens our bargaining position. Strength is in numbers.
4. Elect Stewards. Every 2 years all stewards are up for election. Members elect their stewards.
What has the Union done for me?
1. Paid Holidays. Teamsters Local 320 got us paid holidays. Pre-Teamsters Holidays were worked at straight time.
2. 55 Retirement. Teamsters Local 320 got us the 55 Correctional Retirement. Prior to that we would have worked until 67.
3. Blood Borne Pathogens Bill. Teamsters Local 320 passed the Blood Borne Pathogens Bill. This means if you are exposed to an inmates blood and body fluids they can be forced to give a blood sample to test for disease.
The Union also represents you in Internal Affairs and defends you if you are disciplined. We file grievances on your behalf and advocate for you. Strength is in numbers and unity.
JOIN THE UNION!
Join the Union!
You’re getting this letter because you are listed as “Fair Share” not a member of Teamsters Local 320.
Why join the union?
1. The Contract. You get to vote on the contract. This upcoming contract will be very important because we will finally be able to craft some language that reflects the 28 day schedule.
2. Teamsters Legal Defense Fund. ALL full members are covered by the Teamsters Legal Defense Fund. This means if an inmate and/or the employer accuses you of a criminal or civil matter your legal expenses, lawyer fees and all are covered. Fair Share are on their own. Would you drive a car without insurance?
3. Solidarity. Fair Share tells the employer you don’t care and weakens our bargaining position. Strength is in numbers.
4. Elect Stewards. Every 2 years all stewards are up for election. Members elect their stewards.
What has the Union done for me?
1. Paid Holidays. Teamsters Local 320 got us paid holidays. Pre-Teamsters Holidays were worked at straight time.
2. 55 Retirement. Teamsters Local 320 got us the 55 Correctional Retirement. Prior to that we would have worked until 67.
3. Blood Borne Pathogens Bill. Teamsters Local 320 passed the Blood Borne Pathogens Bill. This means if you are exposed to an inmates blood and body fluids they can be forced to give a blood sample to test for disease.
The Union also represents you in Internal Affairs and defends you if you are disciplined. We file grievances on your behalf and advocate for you. Strength is in numbers and unity.
JOIN THE UNION!
Tuesday, September 01, 2009
What's Up
The arbitrators are in the process of being picked for the excessive discipline from a DWI. The County is dragging it's feet but it's getting there.
Sheets will be going out to all members to write down what you want us to negotiate in the upcoming contract.
Self nomination sheets will be posted this week for 2 more stewards.
Regarding our former steward that that Sheriff Stanek is attempting to fire, Teamsters has paid for a lawyer to represent his Garrity Rights violated by Sheriff Stanek. Our member has chosen the Veteran's preference route and I'm confident he'll be back at work. He has the full backing of Teamsters local 320, as do all of us. Many more details will be on our egroup documenting the BS from this administration.
Sheets will be going out to all members to write down what you want us to negotiate in the upcoming contract.
Self nomination sheets will be posted this week for 2 more stewards.
Regarding our former steward that that Sheriff Stanek is attempting to fire, Teamsters has paid for a lawyer to represent his Garrity Rights violated by Sheriff Stanek. Our member has chosen the Veteran's preference route and I'm confident he'll be back at work. He has the full backing of Teamsters local 320, as do all of us. Many more details will be on our egroup documenting the BS from this administration.
Sunday, August 30, 2009
A letter from our Business Agent
Dear Members,
In all of my years as a Teamsters Business Agent I have never seen a more anti-union Sheriff and administration then Sheriff Stanek and the Sheriff’s Administration currently at Hennepin County. Never before have I seen a Sheriff get involved to have one of our members and stewards charged with a case they not only had no personal knowledge of, but that was outside of their jurisdiction. Sheriff Stanek has no regard for our labor contract, labor law, Garrity rights, veterans’ rights or even past settlement agreements. Sheriff Stanek has misused County and public resources by sending out personal and protected information to agencies outside of the scope of his office and jurisdiction in an effort to slander one of our members, and misusing county employees and taxpayer resources to accomplish this anti-union goal. These anti-union qualities exhibited by Sheriff Stanek are unworthy of the high office of the Hennepin County Sheriff that the public has entrusted him with.
Business Agent Tom Perkins, Teamsters Local 320
In all of my years as a Teamsters Business Agent I have never seen a more anti-union Sheriff and administration then Sheriff Stanek and the Sheriff’s Administration currently at Hennepin County. Never before have I seen a Sheriff get involved to have one of our members and stewards charged with a case they not only had no personal knowledge of, but that was outside of their jurisdiction. Sheriff Stanek has no regard for our labor contract, labor law, Garrity rights, veterans’ rights or even past settlement agreements. Sheriff Stanek has misused County and public resources by sending out personal and protected information to agencies outside of the scope of his office and jurisdiction in an effort to slander one of our members, and misusing county employees and taxpayer resources to accomplish this anti-union goal. These anti-union qualities exhibited by Sheriff Stanek are unworthy of the high office of the Hennepin County Sheriff that the public has entrusted him with.
Business Agent Tom Perkins, Teamsters Local 320
Monday, August 24, 2009
Saturday, August 15, 2009
Sheriff's Office Again Shows Disregard For Employees
Once again the Sheriff's Office has changed the days off of detention deputies 5 days after the 28 day schedule was posted. This disregard for the personal lives of it's employees brings us stress, problems at home and lost money for hotel reservations and airline tickets purchased.
While I realize the Sheriff's Office likes the flexibility (for them) of the schedule and thinks it is saving them money I wish they would honor what they said they would do and lock out the schedule 10 days before as they promised, instead of posting the schedule and then pulling a fast one on us.
I encourage anyone adversely affected by this change to work the chain of command to fix their days off and if that doesn't work to file a grievance to recover money spent for plans that was subsequently lost.
While I realize the Sheriff's Office likes the flexibility (for them) of the schedule and thinks it is saving them money I wish they would honor what they said they would do and lock out the schedule 10 days before as they promised, instead of posting the schedule and then pulling a fast one on us.
I encourage anyone adversely affected by this change to work the chain of command to fix their days off and if that doesn't work to file a grievance to recover money spent for plans that was subsequently lost.
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Integrity?
Integrity?
Watch Don Shelby's comments after being duped into doing a training film for the Sheriff:
http://www.wcco.com/video/?id=34648@wcco.dayport.com
Watch the reactions by the Mayor of Minneapolis and the Chief of Police to the Sheriff's version of what happened at the 35W bridge collapse:
http://www.wcco.com/video/?id=34649@wcco.dayport.com
Watch Don Shelby's comments after being duped into doing a training film for the Sheriff:
http://www.wcco.com/video/?id=34648@wcco.dayport.com
Watch the reactions by the Mayor of Minneapolis and the Chief of Police to the Sheriff's version of what happened at the 35W bridge collapse:
http://www.wcco.com/video/?id=34649@wcco.dayport.com
Monday, July 13, 2009
History Lesson
Headline News
Street Festival, Program and Walking Tour to Commemorate Historic 1934 Strike
July 9 -
Seventy-five years ago this summer, in grim economic times, all hell broke loose on the streets of Minneapolis. A Teamster strike shut down all truck traffic in the city.
Street Festival, Program and Walking Tour to Commemorate Historic 1934 Strike
July 9 -
Seventy-five years ago this summer, in grim economic times, all hell broke loose on the streets of Minneapolis. A Teamster strike shut down all truck traffic in the city.
Teamsters Local 320 Summer Picnic
The 4th Annual Teamsters Local 320 Summer picnic is Sunday August 16, 2009
Where? Como Zoo
Lunch Served From 11:30 A.M. - 12:30 P.M.
RSVP by sending in the flier you received in the mail or call 612/378-8700 for your food vouchers.
See you there!
CLICK HERE for more information.
Where? Como Zoo
Lunch Served From 11:30 A.M. - 12:30 P.M.
RSVP by sending in the flier you received in the mail or call 612/378-8700 for your food vouchers.
See you there!
CLICK HERE for more information.
Friday, July 03, 2009
Friday, June 19, 2009
Grievance Update
Today Teamsters Business Agent Tom Perkins and myself met with Hennepin County Labor Relations and Hennepin County Sheriff's Inspector Martin to discuss three grievances.
The first was a grievance over excessive discipline for one of our members.
The second was the class action grievance over the 1.5% inconvenient work schedule pay we gave up in January 2002 for the Holiday clause now nullified by Sheriff Stanek's 28 day schedule that we are again entitled too.
They have 10 days to respond to the first two grievances with their decision.
The third grievance was the class action grievance dealing with the overtime we are due under Federal Labor Law for changing in and out of our uniforms and over unpaid overtime for late relief from duty stations since the implementation of the 28 day schedule.
The third grievance is now divided. Hennepin County Labor Relations contends that the changing in and out of uniforms is a matter for the courts as our contract does not deal with this. We will keep you posted on Teamsters action on this.
The second part over unpaid overtime for late relief from duty stations was easier. Past practice has been that we started and ended our shift in the sign in room. Labor Relations said that you should be relieved from your duty stations with enough time to return your keys by the end of your shift. They agreed that you are entitled to overtime for travel time from your duty station if relieved late or exactly at the end of your shift.
IMPORTANT: GIVE ME ALL RECORDS OF LATE RELIEF/TRAVEL OVERTIME DENIED AT THE END OF YOUR SHIFT. IF IT WAS DELETED FROM WORKFORCE YOUR WRITTEN DOCUMENTATION TO ME WILL SUFFICE SO I CAN PRESENT IT TO THE COUNTY FOR YOUR OVERTIME PAY.
PLEASE PUT ALL LATE RELIEF/TRAVEL OVERTIME IN WORKFORCE!
The first was a grievance over excessive discipline for one of our members.
The second was the class action grievance over the 1.5% inconvenient work schedule pay we gave up in January 2002 for the Holiday clause now nullified by Sheriff Stanek's 28 day schedule that we are again entitled too.
They have 10 days to respond to the first two grievances with their decision.
The third grievance was the class action grievance dealing with the overtime we are due under Federal Labor Law for changing in and out of our uniforms and over unpaid overtime for late relief from duty stations since the implementation of the 28 day schedule.
The third grievance is now divided. Hennepin County Labor Relations contends that the changing in and out of uniforms is a matter for the courts as our contract does not deal with this. We will keep you posted on Teamsters action on this.
The second part over unpaid overtime for late relief from duty stations was easier. Past practice has been that we started and ended our shift in the sign in room. Labor Relations said that you should be relieved from your duty stations with enough time to return your keys by the end of your shift. They agreed that you are entitled to overtime for travel time from your duty station if relieved late or exactly at the end of your shift.
IMPORTANT: GIVE ME ALL RECORDS OF LATE RELIEF/TRAVEL OVERTIME DENIED AT THE END OF YOUR SHIFT. IF IT WAS DELETED FROM WORKFORCE YOUR WRITTEN DOCUMENTATION TO ME WILL SUFFICE SO I CAN PRESENT IT TO THE COUNTY FOR YOUR OVERTIME PAY.
PLEASE PUT ALL LATE RELIEF/TRAVEL OVERTIME IN WORKFORCE!
Tuesday, June 09, 2009
New Class Action Grievance
Today a class action grievance was filed by myself and our business agent to restore the 1.5% inconvenient work schedule pay we gave up in January 2002 for the Holiday clause now nullified by Sheriff Stanek's 28 day schedule. Our business agent was told by Sheriff Stanek this would be restored when the 28 day schedule took effect, it was not.
Also, the step two class action grievance over the Sheriff's Office denial of overtime has been rescheduled until next week. Not only has the administration not kept their word that we were to be in the locker room at the start of our shift and at our duty station 15 minutes later, something repeated even at our very last shift briefings, they are often not approving overtime for late relief either.
A little bitchin', four years ago the county asked us to accept two years of no cost of living raises saying it was a once in a lifetime situation. We did this. This year we are again looking at another set of zero's. Last summer all vacations and even days off were cancelled for the RNC. We didn't complain but rose to the occasion.
Now this year the Sheriff's Office switched us to the 28 day schedule effectively ruining many of our members summer. They were asked repeatedly not to go to this schedule, one not used at any other jail in the country, especially in such a bad year for contract negotiations, but they did it anyways over repeated complaints from the union.
I can only say this. This will be one hell of a contract for them to negotiate.
Also, the step two class action grievance over the Sheriff's Office denial of overtime has been rescheduled until next week. Not only has the administration not kept their word that we were to be in the locker room at the start of our shift and at our duty station 15 minutes later, something repeated even at our very last shift briefings, they are often not approving overtime for late relief either.
A little bitchin', four years ago the county asked us to accept two years of no cost of living raises saying it was a once in a lifetime situation. We did this. This year we are again looking at another set of zero's. Last summer all vacations and even days off were cancelled for the RNC. We didn't complain but rose to the occasion.
Now this year the Sheriff's Office switched us to the 28 day schedule effectively ruining many of our members summer. They were asked repeatedly not to go to this schedule, one not used at any other jail in the country, especially in such a bad year for contract negotiations, but they did it anyways over repeated complaints from the union.
I can only say this. This will be one hell of a contract for them to negotiate.
Saturday, June 06, 2009
Friday, June 05, 2009
Good bye Dan Lang
The funeral for Dan Lang, former Detention Deputy (1998-2001) will be held Saturday, June 6, 2009 at St. Francis Xavier Church at 9 - 3rd Street NW, Downtown Buffalo, MN . The visitation will take place from 1100-1400 hours. The service will be from 1400-1515. Interment will follow the service at the St. Francis Cemetary.
Daniel James Lang
May 20, 1966 - Tuesday, June 2, 2009
Daniel James Lang, 43 of Buffalo, MN passed away suddenly June 2, 2009 due to a motorcycle accident.
He was born on May 20, 1966 to Violet and James Lang in Mankato, Minnesota.
Dan is survived by his loving sons: Travis and Justin and their mother Beverly Lang, brother: Mitchell Lang, mother: Violet Lang and many other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his father, James Lang.
A veteran of Wright County Sheriff’s office for over 5 years and formerly of Hennepin County Sheriff’s office, Dan was a very dedicated officer.
Dan enjoyed family vacations, watching sports – especially his two boys playing hockey, boating and most of all riding his motorcycles.
Visitation will be held at St. Francis-Xavier Catholic Church in Buffalo, Saturday June 6, 2009 starting at 11:00 AM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 2:00 PM followed by interment at St. Francis Cemetery. Luncheon following interment at the American Legion in Buffalo.
Obituary from Peterson Chapel
Wednesday, June 03, 2009
Class Action Grievance Filed
Class Action Step 2 Grievance Filed June 3rd, 2009
All grievances for denied and deleted overtime before and after shift have been denied at step 1.
Teamsters Local 320 has combined them into a class action grievance for all affected Detention Deputies and Detention Techs.
All grievances for denied and deleted overtime before and after shift have been denied at step 1.
Teamsters Local 320 has combined them into a class action grievance for all affected Detention Deputies and Detention Techs.
Monday, June 01, 2009
Steward Announcement
We have a couple of openings for Union Steward. Self nomination forms will be mailed to all full members homes in the next 2 to 3 weeks. I strongly encourage junior employees to get involved.
Techs, there will no longer be a tech only steward but you are still able to be a steward like the rest of us. Put in!
Techs, there will no longer be a tech only steward but you are still able to be a steward like the rest of us. Put in!
Hennepin County Taxpayer Watchdog
There's a new blog you might find interesting. The Hennepin County Taxpayer Watchdog.
http://www.taxpayerwatchdog.org/
It's run by Hennepin County Board member Jeff Johnson. He describes it as, "A blog dedicated to the taxpayers of Hennepin County."
He gives out a Golden Hydrant Awards to County tax dollar wasting programs.
Interesting!
http://www.taxpayerwatchdog.org/
It's run by Hennepin County Board member Jeff Johnson. He describes it as, "A blog dedicated to the taxpayers of Hennepin County."
He gives out a Golden Hydrant Awards to County tax dollar wasting programs.
Interesting!
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Week 1, 28 Day Debacle
The first week of the 28 day schedule is behind us. So far it's been a total debacle. Unlike what was said at the Labor Management Meet and Confers and said at the jail squad meetings, that our shift was to start and end in the locker room, management instead demanded that we be dressed before and after shift on our own time. Conveniently those who could do something took vacation!
In the meantime, overtime put in before shift for dressing and even overtime put in for time after shift waiting to be relieved was deleted!
I filed a formal complaint with the County and hopefully we can resolve this next week.
Keep following orders and putting in for overtime. Keep filing grievances.
Also this next week our business agent and I will be filing a grievance to restore the 1.5% inconvenient work schedule pay we gave up in 2002 for the Holiday arrangement that is now nullified by the 28 day 8 hour schedule.
SOLIDARITY
In the meantime, overtime put in before shift for dressing and even overtime put in for time after shift waiting to be relieved was deleted!
I filed a formal complaint with the County and hopefully we can resolve this next week.
Keep following orders and putting in for overtime. Keep filing grievances.
Also this next week our business agent and I will be filing a grievance to restore the 1.5% inconvenient work schedule pay we gave up in 2002 for the Holiday arrangement that is now nullified by the 28 day 8 hour schedule.
SOLIDARITY
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Inmate Dirty Deeds for your viewing pleasure!
Anyone working in our profession will find much of this familiar!
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
NOTICE
TEAMSTERS LOCAL 320 DETENTION DEPUTIES AND TECHS
UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE BE AT THE SIGN IN BOARD AT THE START OF YOUR ASSIGNED SHIFT PER ORDER OF THE FACILTY COMMANDER. PUT IN FOR 15 MINUTES OF OVERTIME. IF OVERTIME IS DENIED FILE A GRIEVANCE.
AT THE END OF YOUR SHIFT YOU SHOULD BE OUT OF YOUR UNIFORM AND LEAVING THE LOCKER ROOM. IF NOT ALLOWED TO LEAVE YOUR DUTY STATION BY SUPERVISORY ORDER OR LATE RELIEF. PUT IN FOR 15 MINUTES OF OVERTIME. IF OVERTIME IS DENIED FILE A GRIEVANCE.
These issues were dealt with at the Labor Management Meet and Confers but apparently were not passed down to the Jail Administration. Those who can straighten this out are out town and this may not be settled until next week. 8 hours work for 8 hours pay!
Wade Laszlo,
Chief Steward Teamsters Local 320
UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE BE AT THE SIGN IN BOARD AT THE START OF YOUR ASSIGNED SHIFT PER ORDER OF THE FACILTY COMMANDER. PUT IN FOR 15 MINUTES OF OVERTIME. IF OVERTIME IS DENIED FILE A GRIEVANCE.
AT THE END OF YOUR SHIFT YOU SHOULD BE OUT OF YOUR UNIFORM AND LEAVING THE LOCKER ROOM. IF NOT ALLOWED TO LEAVE YOUR DUTY STATION BY SUPERVISORY ORDER OR LATE RELIEF. PUT IN FOR 15 MINUTES OF OVERTIME. IF OVERTIME IS DENIED FILE A GRIEVANCE.
These issues were dealt with at the Labor Management Meet and Confers but apparently were not passed down to the Jail Administration. Those who can straighten this out are out town and this may not be settled until next week. 8 hours work for 8 hours pay!
Wade Laszlo,
Chief Steward Teamsters Local 320
Monday, May 25, 2009
Sunday, May 24, 2009
28 day cluster fuck
This, the first day of the 28 day 8 hour schedule has begun as a cluster fuck. I ended up on the phone with a lieutenant at midnight after members were told they were to be signed in at the start of their shift. Then today I get a call about an email from the jail Captain telling us to be at the sign in board at the start of our shift.
This is my email response to the Captain:
Captain,
Everything has changed since the implementation of the 28 day 8 hour schedule. The employer shortened our day to 8 hours from 8.5. We will not give the employer that extra half hour for free. At the Labor Management Meet and Confers the Hennepin County Labor Relations, Chief Deputy Carlson and Inspectors Roberts and Martin were informed that our day begins in the locker room pursuant to the unanimous Supreme Court decision regarding uniforms. At those meetings Inspector Roberts said that we will be expected to be in the locker room at the start of our shift and at our duty station 15 minutes later. Apparently this information was not passed on to you. This is not a contract item, this is not negotiable, this is Federal Law.
"Therefore, the time, no matter how minimal, that an employee is required to spend putting on and taking off gear on the employer's premises is compensable "work" under the FLSA."http://www.dol.gov/esa/whd/FieldBulletins/AdvisoryMemo2006_2.htm
If you require our members to be dressed at the start of the shift we will expect 15 minutes of overtime every day.
Wade Laszlo
Chief Steward Teamsters Local 320
Members, do not disobey any direct orders. Follow them and put in for overtime. Then file a grievance if the overtime is denied. The 8 hour day is their schedule!
This is my email response to the Captain:
Captain,
Everything has changed since the implementation of the 28 day 8 hour schedule. The employer shortened our day to 8 hours from 8.5. We will not give the employer that extra half hour for free. At the Labor Management Meet and Confers the Hennepin County Labor Relations, Chief Deputy Carlson and Inspectors Roberts and Martin were informed that our day begins in the locker room pursuant to the unanimous Supreme Court decision regarding uniforms. At those meetings Inspector Roberts said that we will be expected to be in the locker room at the start of our shift and at our duty station 15 minutes later. Apparently this information was not passed on to you. This is not a contract item, this is not negotiable, this is Federal Law.
"Therefore, the time, no matter how minimal, that an employee is required to spend putting on and taking off gear on the employer's premises is compensable "work" under the FLSA."http://www.dol.gov/esa/whd/FieldBulletins/AdvisoryMemo2006_2.htm
If you require our members to be dressed at the start of the shift we will expect 15 minutes of overtime every day.
Wade Laszlo
Chief Steward Teamsters Local 320
Members, do not disobey any direct orders. Follow them and put in for overtime. Then file a grievance if the overtime is denied. The 8 hour day is their schedule!
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Real cost saving for the County
The State will finally end the sending of short term offenders to the county jails. For 6 years the State has been sending it's inmates to the County Workhouse and only paying $10 a day for housing, food and medical!
Read the story here.
Read the story here.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Teamsters Local 320 says, No Give Backs!
As local governments ask for "give backs" Teamsters Local 320 Business Agent Tom Perkin's says "no."
Both Ramsey County and Washington County have asked Teamsters Correctional Officers to re-open signed contracts to take away wages. Both were told "no," by our B.A. Tom Perkins. A signed contract is a contract.
To Hennepin County we also say no give backs. Four years ago we sat in Sheriff McGowan's office with Hennepin County Labor Relations and were asked to accept 0% in cost of living wages for two years. We were told this would be a "once in a lifetime" request. Unlike the licensed deputy association, we agreed to this and did not arbitrate (they lost). We, the largest jail in the upper Midwest, fell behind in wages to most smaller metro area jails. Our incomes were also decimated by rising health care costs and gasoline prices. In short our real income shrunk dramatically.
This last contract we finally got a cost of living adjustment and will not give it back! Especially in light of the fact the county will most likely offer a 0% cost of living raise this next contract round.
What about the County Board's furlough program? We will not participate. Asking you to "give back" three days is equivalent to a three day suspension for being a public employee! Not to mention Sheriff Stanek's new schedule that requires us to work fifteen more days a year for the same wage! We are essential employees that keep dangerous people off of the street. We are not tax payer leaching pencil pushers as Governor Pawlenty would have some believe. Nor glorified security guards as others would have you believe. Corrections Officers have higher injury and workers compensation rates then police.
Both Ramsey County and Washington County have asked Teamsters Correctional Officers to re-open signed contracts to take away wages. Both were told "no," by our B.A. Tom Perkins. A signed contract is a contract.
To Hennepin County we also say no give backs. Four years ago we sat in Sheriff McGowan's office with Hennepin County Labor Relations and were asked to accept 0% in cost of living wages for two years. We were told this would be a "once in a lifetime" request. Unlike the licensed deputy association, we agreed to this and did not arbitrate (they lost). We, the largest jail in the upper Midwest, fell behind in wages to most smaller metro area jails. Our incomes were also decimated by rising health care costs and gasoline prices. In short our real income shrunk dramatically.
This last contract we finally got a cost of living adjustment and will not give it back! Especially in light of the fact the county will most likely offer a 0% cost of living raise this next contract round.
What about the County Board's furlough program? We will not participate. Asking you to "give back" three days is equivalent to a three day suspension for being a public employee! Not to mention Sheriff Stanek's new schedule that requires us to work fifteen more days a year for the same wage! We are essential employees that keep dangerous people off of the street. We are not tax payer leaching pencil pushers as Governor Pawlenty would have some believe. Nor glorified security guards as others would have you believe. Corrections Officers have higher injury and workers compensation rates then police.
We will not reopen a signed contract. We can't control what the County offers us this year in negotiations, but I'll be damned if we give back money that's been agreed upon. Money we will never make up for in the future. We provide the public a vital service and are not the cause of government waste.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Friday, April 24, 2009
Arbitration Update
The arbitration for excessive discipline given for a misdemeanor DWI is moving ahead. The list of arbitrators should be picked in the next 2 to 4 weeks. Teamsters Local 320 has made this a priority. Our business Agent Tom Perkins said that it is being moved forward quickly because time off like this for a one time DWI is unprecedented and unheard of in ANY other jail. Our B.A. said that the Stanek administration was again given a chance to reduce the discipline and avoid arbitration.
Friday, April 17, 2009
Up Coming Events
MNTLEL Public Safety Stewards Training May, 6th.
Stewards call 612/378-8700 to reserve your spot. Location: Radisson Hotel, Roseville
Members 28 Day Informational Meeting.
May 7th 12:30 PM and 3PM at Broadway Pizza, Minneapolis (union members only, no fair share).
Stewards call 612/378-8700 to reserve your spot. Location: Radisson Hotel, Roseville
Members 28 Day Informational Meeting.
May 7th 12:30 PM and 3PM at Broadway Pizza, Minneapolis (union members only, no fair share).
Friday, April 10, 2009
Making sense of chaos
The Sheriff's Admin and County Labor relations met with every bargaining unit in the Sheriff's Office to try to make some sense on how this is 28 day schedule to be implemented.
This was our Teamster input:
1. Days off must be primarily decided by seniority. To make things less burdensome for our newer employees everyone should be required to work at least one weekend a month. *Dog watchers who put in for 2 or more days off together should be granted those for recovery time. Also we asked that each member be given 2 "dot" days each 28 day period for days you absolutely have to have off, i.e. getting married, etc.
2. 8 hours work for 8 hours pay. Our day begins and ends in the locker room.
3. We expect the 1.5% inconvenient work schedule pay we gave up for our present holiday arrangement to be restored with the implementation of the 28 day schedule on May 24, 2009. Article 3, sections 2 and 3 of our Agreement.
4. We expect 10% of our staff to be allowed off on Vacation per day.
In addition,
*Because the schedule changed after the Prime Time Vacation bid, Prime Time Vacation for 2009 should be honored in the manner it has been implemented for the past 30 years. In other words the 3 days before and after Prime Time Vacation should be allowed as regular days off. OOOVVVVVVOOO
IMPORTANT: They will attempt to accommodate every one's off days they put in that are adjacent to their prime time vacation THIS year only. When we are able to submit our preferences it is vitally important that you write in the remarks section that this is part of your vacation
This was our Teamster input:
1. Days off must be primarily decided by seniority. To make things less burdensome for our newer employees everyone should be required to work at least one weekend a month. *Dog watchers who put in for 2 or more days off together should be granted those for recovery time. Also we asked that each member be given 2 "dot" days each 28 day period for days you absolutely have to have off, i.e. getting married, etc.
2. 8 hours work for 8 hours pay. Our day begins and ends in the locker room.
3. We expect the 1.5% inconvenient work schedule pay we gave up for our present holiday arrangement to be restored with the implementation of the 28 day schedule on May 24, 2009. Article 3, sections 2 and 3 of our Agreement.
4. We expect 10% of our staff to be allowed off on Vacation per day.
In addition,
*Because the schedule changed after the Prime Time Vacation bid, Prime Time Vacation for 2009 should be honored in the manner it has been implemented for the past 30 years. In other words the 3 days before and after Prime Time Vacation should be allowed as regular days off. OOOVVVVVVOOO
IMPORTANT: They will attempt to accommodate every one's off days they put in that are adjacent to their prime time vacation THIS year only. When we are able to submit our preferences it is vitally important that you write in the remarks section that this is part of your vacation
Wednesday, April 08, 2009
Federal Law-You Must Be Paid For Putting On Your Uniform
The Supreme Court unanimously upheld that you must be PAID for time spent putting on and off your uniform!
"Therefore, the time, no matter how minimal, that an employee is required to spend putting on and taking off gear on the employer’s premises is compensable “work” under the FLSA."
http://www.dol.gov/esa/whd/FieldBulletins/AdvisoryMemo2006_2.htm
"Therefore, the time, no matter how minimal, that an employee is required to spend putting on and taking off gear on the employer’s premises is compensable “work” under the FLSA."
http://www.dol.gov/esa/whd/FieldBulletins/AdvisoryMemo2006_2.htm
Friday, April 03, 2009
What is being done
(This is post has been rewritten to reflect what I'm putting out in a newsletter and cleaned up a bit. 4/4/09)
The Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office is exercising their right under Article 10, section 3 of our Agreement to change our schedule from the current 6/3 to a 28 day, 8 hour schedule.
The Sheriff has decided to implement this schedule despite unanimous opposition. When asked if we could poll our members about alternate schedules they might prefer to this they responded with, "We are going to an 8 hour schedule and will entertain no other options."
The Administration has been told 8 hours work for 8 hours pay. By federal law our day BEGINS when we ENTER the locker room.
We will file for overtime every time we are relieved late.
*Their entire schedule is based on the belief you will show up early and stay late for free. They then take the half hour you now get paid for, you work it for free and they take that time and convert it into more work days for you. They want an 8 hour schedule with no overlap, give it to them!
We expect the 1.5% inconvenient work schedule pay we gave up 10 years ago to get the holidays the way they are to be restored now that management has changed the schedule.
We are stating that everyone must work at least one weekend a month. This will make it easier for everyone to get weekends off.
We are asking that dog watch deputies who put in for 2 or more days off together get them as they need recovery time.
We are setting up a meeting so we can earn and use comp time.
We got Chief Deputy Carlson to commit to allowing (10%) 6 off a shift for vacation.
This is how Holidays will work under their new schedule:
If you work a Holiday you get time and a half for that Holiday. You no longer bank or cash out deferred holidays, you must take a different day off during the SAME 28 day period. So for example if you work Veterans Day, Thanksgiving and the Day After Thanksgiving you would get time and a half for those three Holidays and HAVE to take 3 different days off that period, so you'd get 11 days off that period.
The Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office is exercising their right under Article 10, section 3 of our Agreement to change our schedule from the current 6/3 to a 28 day, 8 hour schedule.
The Sheriff has decided to implement this schedule despite unanimous opposition. When asked if we could poll our members about alternate schedules they might prefer to this they responded with, "We are going to an 8 hour schedule and will entertain no other options."
The Administration has been told 8 hours work for 8 hours pay. By federal law our day BEGINS when we ENTER the locker room.
We will file for overtime every time we are relieved late.
*Their entire schedule is based on the belief you will show up early and stay late for free. They then take the half hour you now get paid for, you work it for free and they take that time and convert it into more work days for you. They want an 8 hour schedule with no overlap, give it to them!
We expect the 1.5% inconvenient work schedule pay we gave up 10 years ago to get the holidays the way they are to be restored now that management has changed the schedule.
We are stating that everyone must work at least one weekend a month. This will make it easier for everyone to get weekends off.
We are asking that dog watch deputies who put in for 2 or more days off together get them as they need recovery time.
We are setting up a meeting so we can earn and use comp time.
We got Chief Deputy Carlson to commit to allowing (10%) 6 off a shift for vacation.
This is how Holidays will work under their new schedule:
If you work a Holiday you get time and a half for that Holiday. You no longer bank or cash out deferred holidays, you must take a different day off during the SAME 28 day period. So for example if you work Veterans Day, Thanksgiving and the Day After Thanksgiving you would get time and a half for those three Holidays and HAVE to take 3 different days off that period, so you'd get 11 days off that period.
Thursday, April 02, 2009
28 Day Schedule is coming
The 28 day/8 hour schedule is coming. The Sheriff's Office has said it will be implemented May 24, 2009. This is management's right under Article 10, Section 3 of our Agreement. This move has many implications on other parts of our Agreement and we will keep you posted.
The Union discussed the possibility of 10 hour shifts or 12 hour shifts on a 28 day schedule but management, "will not entertain other options" for us or any other bargaining unit at this time.
It was expressed unanimously by our business agent and all stewards that our members were not in favor of this change but it is their right and they are determined to go ahead with it.
The Union discussed the possibility of 10 hour shifts or 12 hour shifts on a 28 day schedule but management, "will not entertain other options" for us or any other bargaining unit at this time.
It was expressed unanimously by our business agent and all stewards that our members were not in favor of this change but it is their right and they are determined to go ahead with it.
Wednesday, April 01, 2009
Website updated up and running
Our Detention Home website is up and running. I've changed the look. Check it out.
Monday, March 30, 2009
Website May Be Down
My webhost is changing servors. Our Detentionhome Website may go down. This blog will continue to be up as will our e-group.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Excessive Discipline Set For Arbitration
Teamsters 320 has filed for arbitration on behalf of one of our members over an excessive 3 day discipline. Our member with a clean discipline record received a DWI out of town and notified the employer. He subsequently received a 3 day suspension. The pattern of many years has been a one day suspension for a first time offense with a clean record.
Thanks to our B.A. Tom Perkins who spent 3 hours of his vacation time waiting to settle this via conference call.
Thanks to our B.A. Tom Perkins who spent 3 hours of his vacation time waiting to settle this via conference call.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Grievance settled-Shift bid available!
About 24 hours after a wave of grievances were filed by Teamsters detention deputies the Hennepin County Sheriff's Office made the shift bid available. This is a vivid reminder that solidarity works. A Union is not just an organization you pay dues to. It's all of us united.
Thanks for your solidarity.
Thanks for your solidarity.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
32 grievances in a couple hours!
32 grievances were filed late dayshift and early mids over the shift bid not being available. At 1730 a jail Inspector called and said the bid would be available 2/19. Way to go Teamsters. If it doesn't materialize I expect 150 grievances! See the e-group.
Monday, February 16, 2009
Sheriff's Office Violates Agreement
On Friday the 13th of February the HENNEPIN COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS DIVISION issued a memo stating that:
The Shift Bid has been delayed. More information is forth-coming.
This is a direct violation of our Agreement with our employer Hennepin County!
Our Agreement reads in Article 7, sec. 4: "On or about February 15 and August 15 of each year, each Detention Deputy and Detention Technician shall be permitted to bid for the shift such employee prefers within the work unit of the Sheriff's Office to which such Detention Deputy and Detention Technician is assigned. "
This blatant disregard of our Agreement affects not only detention deputies and techs right to bid their shift but also cuts into the time employees have to bid their Prime Time Vacation which is due by April 1st.
I will be speaking with Hennepin County Labor Relations tomorrow. I'll let you know via the e-group if any action is needed on your part.
Apparently the Professional Standards Division doesn't include following the contract!
The Shift Bid has been delayed. More information is forth-coming.
This is a direct violation of our Agreement with our employer Hennepin County!
Our Agreement reads in Article 7, sec. 4: "On or about February 15 and August 15 of each year, each Detention Deputy and Detention Technician shall be permitted to bid for the shift such employee prefers within the work unit of the Sheriff's Office to which such Detention Deputy and Detention Technician is assigned. "
This blatant disregard of our Agreement affects not only detention deputies and techs right to bid their shift but also cuts into the time employees have to bid their Prime Time Vacation which is due by April 1st.
I will be speaking with Hennepin County Labor Relations tomorrow. I'll let you know via the e-group if any action is needed on your part.
Apparently the Professional Standards Division doesn't include following the contract!
Friday, February 13, 2009
DOC Releases Video of Prison Fights
To bring home the costs of budget cuts and double bunking, something we do regularly, the MN DOC has released video of what goes on behind the walls.
http://www.startribune.com/local/39550512.html
Any of this look familiar?
http://www.startribune.com/local/39550512.html
Any of this look familiar?
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Labor Management Meet & Confer RE: 28 Days
Teamsters 320 BA Tom Perkins and your Stewards met with managment and Hennepin County Labor Relations and heard their proposal. (More details for those on our egroup). We have another meeting set for February 25th 2009.
Friday, February 06, 2009
February 10 Union Meeting Info
The Sheriff's Administration is going to meet with Teamsters and Labor Relations and give us their proposal on the 28 days.
We will NOT need everyone at the next union meeting (although all members are encouraged to attend meetings) it will not deal with the 28 days.
We will NOT need everyone at the next union meeting (although all members are encouraged to attend meetings) it will not deal with the 28 days.
Wednesday, February 04, 2009
IMPORTANT TEAMSTERS UNION MEETING
Concerned about possible upcoming schedule changes?
All detention deputy and tech union members are urged to attend the next union meeting on February 10th.
Twin Cities General Membership meetings held at the Teamster building, 3001 University Avenue, S.E., Minneapolis.
2nd TuesdaySocial Hour: 6:30 p.m.General Membership: 7:00 p.m.
All detention deputy and tech union members are urged to attend the next union meeting on February 10th.
Twin Cities General Membership meetings held at the Teamster building, 3001 University Avenue, S.E., Minneapolis.
2nd TuesdaySocial Hour: 6:30 p.m.General Membership: 7:00 p.m.
Tuesday, February 03, 2009
A Brief History of Our Paid Holidays
When I started working at the Hennepin County Jail in 1990 Holidays were worked at straight time, lunches were considered unpaid except for a $600 a year interrupted lunch check, and we owed the Sheriff's Office "payback hours."
In 1994 we initiated a lawsuit against then Hennepin County Sheriff McGowan to get the Holiday benefits already listed in our contract enforced. Our then labor association LELS at first backed us then testified in court against us. The judges ruling was that while we appeared correct in our interpretation of the contract the contract was between Hennepin County and LELS therefore we had no legal standing to challenge it.
We then decertified LELS and organized under Teamsters Local 320 in 1998. Our first Teamster contract recognized our full 8.5 hours worked and gave us enough hours to receive the full Holiday benefit afforded other Hennepin County workers.
The Sheriff's Office then claimed they couldn't afford to give us the Holidays off and Sheriff McGowan cut our days back to 8 hours. This meant our 88 hours for the 11 Holidays got sucked up and we actually had to work an additional 48 hours as "payback" hours. This caused a rift between us and Sheriff McGowan that was never bridged. Through pressure from the Teamsters and member tactics like putting in for overtime at the end of each shift (because there were no shift overlaps) the half hour overlap and Holiday benefit was restored.
The Sheriff's Office next tactic was to cash out the Deferred Holidays rather then giving us the actual days off specified in our Agreement. A grievance was filed and the result was the Letter of Understanding. The Letter of Understanding made it so that Detention Deputies had the choice of either cashing out the Deferred Holiday or banking up to 24 hours of Deferred Holiday. This was a benefit to the Sheriff's Office because they had less time off to cover and a benefit to Detention Deputies who preferred the cash option.
The preface to the Letter of Understanding reads:
LETTER OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN
HENNEPIN COUNTY AND
TEAMSTERS LOCAL #320
DETENTION DEPUTY/TELECOMMUNICATOR UNIT
The parties agree to the following interpretation regarding holiday pay under Article 11 for Detention Deputies who are assigned to a 6-3 schedule of 8.5 hour days:
A few pertinent points.
1) The Agreement is between Hennepin County and Teamsters Local 320 NOT the Sheriff's Office.
2) Allowing the Employer to cash out Deferred Holidays rather then giving us the days off is dependant on the 6-3 schedule of 8.5 hour days.
Any variation in these hours or schedule violates the Letter of Understanding and will result in getting the 11 deferred Holidays off per the Agreement.
In 1994 we initiated a lawsuit against then Hennepin County Sheriff McGowan to get the Holiday benefits already listed in our contract enforced. Our then labor association LELS at first backed us then testified in court against us. The judges ruling was that while we appeared correct in our interpretation of the contract the contract was between Hennepin County and LELS therefore we had no legal standing to challenge it.
We then decertified LELS and organized under Teamsters Local 320 in 1998. Our first Teamster contract recognized our full 8.5 hours worked and gave us enough hours to receive the full Holiday benefit afforded other Hennepin County workers.
The Sheriff's Office then claimed they couldn't afford to give us the Holidays off and Sheriff McGowan cut our days back to 8 hours. This meant our 88 hours for the 11 Holidays got sucked up and we actually had to work an additional 48 hours as "payback" hours. This caused a rift between us and Sheriff McGowan that was never bridged. Through pressure from the Teamsters and member tactics like putting in for overtime at the end of each shift (because there were no shift overlaps) the half hour overlap and Holiday benefit was restored.
The Sheriff's Office next tactic was to cash out the Deferred Holidays rather then giving us the actual days off specified in our Agreement. A grievance was filed and the result was the Letter of Understanding. The Letter of Understanding made it so that Detention Deputies had the choice of either cashing out the Deferred Holiday or banking up to 24 hours of Deferred Holiday. This was a benefit to the Sheriff's Office because they had less time off to cover and a benefit to Detention Deputies who preferred the cash option.
The preface to the Letter of Understanding reads:
LETTER OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN
HENNEPIN COUNTY AND
TEAMSTERS LOCAL #320
DETENTION DEPUTY/TELECOMMUNICATOR UNIT
The parties agree to the following interpretation regarding holiday pay under Article 11 for Detention Deputies who are assigned to a 6-3 schedule of 8.5 hour days:
A few pertinent points.
1) The Agreement is between Hennepin County and Teamsters Local 320 NOT the Sheriff's Office.
2) Allowing the Employer to cash out Deferred Holidays rather then giving us the days off is dependant on the 6-3 schedule of 8.5 hour days.
Any variation in these hours or schedule violates the Letter of Understanding and will result in getting the 11 deferred Holidays off per the Agreement.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Riot at JC
Officials have vowed to review security at the Hennepin County Juvenile Detention Center after an inmate, two teachers, and a staff member were attacked during what police describe as a riot inside the facility.
Authorities said the incident broke out during a school session at the downtown Minneapolis center on Thursday.
Six teens allegedly rushed their 59-year-old teacher, and struck him on the back of his head before taking his jail keys and emergency phone.
Authorities said the incident broke out during a school session at the downtown Minneapolis center on Thursday.
Six teens allegedly rushed their 59-year-old teacher, and struck him on the back of his head before taking his jail keys and emergency phone.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
State of the Union, Recent Grievances
The following are recent unresolved grievances that the union is representing members on:
2 members grieved being given a 3 day suspension while a licensed deputy received only a two day suspension for the same incident.
1 member grieved given a 3 day suspension for a one time misdemeanour DWI. The standard suspension for other county correctional officers is none. The HCSO pattern has been only a 1 day suspension. There is no reason for the upward departure especially since the member has no prior discipline on his record.
1 member filed a grievance after being given both a Letter of Reprimand and being banned from working OT for a period of time after missing OT that was signed up for. The grievance is not that discipline was meted out, but that both the formal discipline (Letter of Reprimand ) and the informal banning of signing up for OT are being used.
2 members grieved being given a 3 day suspension while a licensed deputy received only a two day suspension for the same incident.
1 member grieved given a 3 day suspension for a one time misdemeanour DWI. The standard suspension for other county correctional officers is none. The HCSO pattern has been only a 1 day suspension. There is no reason for the upward departure especially since the member has no prior discipline on his record.
1 member filed a grievance after being given both a Letter of Reprimand and being banned from working OT for a period of time after missing OT that was signed up for. The grievance is not that discipline was meted out, but that both the formal discipline (Letter of Reprimand ) and the informal banning of signing up for OT are being used.