We lost our contract arbitration. Sadly, the county couldn't even give us some non-monetary language considering we took a wage and step freeze. Negotiations begin anew this summer.
The Department of Labor told me that the County has until November 15th to pay out the back pay on the overtime augments. After that the regional director will take action.
The grievance filed after the Sheriff's Office changed the seniority list was denied at step 2 and will be moved to step 3.
We are preparing the arbitration for the 1.5% inconvenient work schedule grievance.
The Horobin case is in court. This is the case where the HCSO released Garrity protected information.
We, (our BA and I) will address the County Board at the HCSO budget hearings on October 28th. We encourage you to attend. Location 24th floor Government Center. 1-4 PM.
Ballots are out for the Teamsters Local 320 elections. I encourage you to support the Members for a Better Union slate.
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!
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Delegate Announcement
I, Wade Laszlo, am formally announcing that I am seeking to be a delegate supporting the Fred Gergare and Brad Slawson, Sr. Slate in the upcoming 2011 IBT elections.
Saturday, October 23, 2010
VOTE- the ballots have been mailed
VOTE- You are the Union. You can effect change.
I support the Members For A Better Union Slate.
Read their Manifesto.
Then ask yourself:
Where was the board when we had the Vote of no Confidence in Sheriff Stanek?
Where was MNTLEL, where was the outcry, when the Stanek administration violated Detention Deputy Horobin's Garrity rights and released Garrity protected statements?
We took zero's for raises and for the first time step freezes....but we were forced to arbitrate, and lose, 3 NON-MONETARY ITEMS. Consider this, 4 of 7 of the County Board members are Teamsters' endorsed by DRIVE. The County could have agreed to any or all of our requests without costing them a dime if they had any fear of losing a DRIVE endorsement.
While most Teamsters took wage freezes and some groups took cuts many on the board increased their salaries!
It's time to vote in a new board that remembers that Teamsters are about strength and backing the members.
Vote for the MEMBERS FOR A BETTER UNION SLATE. Please don't just throw away the ballot. You pay dues and have the right to vote. You deserve maximum backing for the dues you pay.
I support the Members For A Better Union Slate.
Read their Manifesto.
Then ask yourself:
Where was the board when we had the Vote of no Confidence in Sheriff Stanek?
Where was MNTLEL, where was the outcry, when the Stanek administration violated Detention Deputy Horobin's Garrity rights and released Garrity protected statements?
We took zero's for raises and for the first time step freezes....but we were forced to arbitrate, and lose, 3 NON-MONETARY ITEMS. Consider this, 4 of 7 of the County Board members are Teamsters' endorsed by DRIVE. The County could have agreed to any or all of our requests without costing them a dime if they had any fear of losing a DRIVE endorsement.
While most Teamsters took wage freezes and some groups took cuts many on the board increased their salaries!
It's time to vote in a new board that remembers that Teamsters are about strength and backing the members.
Vote for the MEMBERS FOR A BETTER UNION SLATE. Please don't just throw away the ballot. You pay dues and have the right to vote. You deserve maximum backing for the dues you pay.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Apparently The Field Has Opened
There is now a real write in candidate Linda Lachner.
In addition of course, to our friend the Facebook Kitten!
In addition of course, to our friend the Facebook Kitten!
Teamsters Ballots are coming!
For the local 320 elections I endorse the MEMBERS FOR A BETTER UNION SLATE.
For the upcoming International Teamsters Election I endorse Fred Gerage and Brad Slawson, Sr.
Take the time to follow the links and please vote.
For the upcoming International Teamsters Election I endorse Fred Gerage and Brad Slawson, Sr.
Take the time to follow the links and please vote.
Monday, October 11, 2010
Vote for the Members for a Better Union Slate!
Local elections are coming up. It's time for a change in leadership.
Tired of arbitrations taking a year or more (if ever) to happen?
Tired of wage freezes while union leadership gets raises?
I endorse the Members for a Better Union Slate!
Tired of arbitrations taking a year or more (if ever) to happen?
Tired of wage freezes while union leadership gets raises?
I endorse the Members for a Better Union Slate!
Monday, October 04, 2010
Propaganda in Shooting Straight
This week's Shooting Straight with Sheriff Stanek, is commenting about the budget woes the Sheriff's Office is facing. Including a 2% cut in revenue from property taxes. All well and good until he says, "In addition we must absorb an additional $1.3 million in 2011 for increases in health care costs, step increases and pensions."
Really? Health Care costs did not increase because the County went self insured, no labor groups are receiving step increases or cost of living raises for that matter and there has been no increase to the pension contributions.
Sheriff Stanek's use as propaganda the cost of our non-existent step increases as a cost he must absorb is not only bullshit, but insulting to those of us whose wages and steps were frozen.
It's pretty ballsy to publish in Shooting Straight this outright lie for all of us to see who are taking a wage freeze and step freezes.
I clicked on the email button on his Shooting Straight page where he says he's interested in our comments to ask him about this. It led to a blank page. So I typed the email address into my work email and tried again to ask him about this (forwarding a copy home). This email to the Sheriff also bounced!
I'd say this is more of a Shooting Crooked then Straight. I'd call this propaganda. Why else would he say he had budget costs to absorb that don't exist?
Really? Health Care costs did not increase because the County went self insured, no labor groups are receiving step increases or cost of living raises for that matter and there has been no increase to the pension contributions.
Sheriff Stanek's use as propaganda the cost of our non-existent step increases as a cost he must absorb is not only bullshit, but insulting to those of us whose wages and steps were frozen.
It's pretty ballsy to publish in Shooting Straight this outright lie for all of us to see who are taking a wage freeze and step freezes.
I clicked on the email button on his Shooting Straight page where he says he's interested in our comments to ask him about this. It led to a blank page. So I typed the email address into my work email and tried again to ask him about this (forwarding a copy home). This email to the Sheriff also bounced!
I'd say this is more of a Shooting Crooked then Straight. I'd call this propaganda. Why else would he say he had budget costs to absorb that don't exist?
Saturday, October 02, 2010
Public Employees Shouldn't Be Second Class Teamsters
Updated On: Sep 21, 2010 (19:05:00)
Being out of touch with everyday Teamsters is one thing. Not knowing they exist is another.
After more than a decade in office, James Phillip Hoffa doesn’t seem to realize that there are nearly 250,000 members in the Public Services Division. He recently stated:
“We’ve organized thousands of people. County employees in Florida. People you wouldn’t think we’d organize.”
Why wouldn’t we?
Unlike many people who have been organized during Hoffa’s administration, public employees have stable, good paying jobs. Plus, the public sector is a Teamster stronghold with contracts that need to be strengthened and protected.
Not only does James Phillip Hoffa deem public employees unworthy of organizing, he thinks that assigning a single IBT representative for a quarter of a million members is fair.
Not Fred. He’ll stop treating public employees like second class Teamsters and build a Public Services Division that will provide them with the representation they deserve.
REPRINTED FROM: FRED GEGARE 2007
Being out of touch with everyday Teamsters is one thing. Not knowing they exist is another.
After more than a decade in office, James Phillip Hoffa doesn’t seem to realize that there are nearly 250,000 members in the Public Services Division. He recently stated:
“We’ve organized thousands of people. County employees in Florida. People you wouldn’t think we’d organize.”
Why wouldn’t we?
Unlike many people who have been organized during Hoffa’s administration, public employees have stable, good paying jobs. Plus, the public sector is a Teamster stronghold with contracts that need to be strengthened and protected.
Not only does James Phillip Hoffa deem public employees unworthy of organizing, he thinks that assigning a single IBT representative for a quarter of a million members is fair.
Not Fred. He’ll stop treating public employees like second class Teamsters and build a Public Services Division that will provide them with the representation they deserve.
REPRINTED FROM: FRED GEGARE 2007
Monday, September 27, 2010
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Is this fair?
The new licensed class COUNTS as of November 12th. Yet they have them on 5/2 through the beginning of December. Yes, the lowest in seniority will have every weekend off and the Thanksgiving and Day After Thanksgiving Holiday. Despite the fact some of you haven't been able to get a weekend or Holiday off for more than a year!
I emailed the middle shift scheduling sergeant and asked him to "correct this." His answer was no.
I just sent the following email to jail Captain W.:
Captain W.,
The new class counts on the schedule as of Nov. 12th. They are on a 5/2 schedule through the beginning of December even though it is not necessary. As you know one of the biggest complaints with the 28 schedule is the inability to get weekends and Holidays off. This is an opportunity to boost morale amongst the more senior staff who put in for weekends off and the November Holidays and were denied. Simply place the new class on the remaining weekends and Thanksgiving Holidays and allow people off with more seniority who asked for it.
Wade Laszlo
Chief Steward Teamsters Local 320
The ball is in their court. They have an opportunity to make life a little easier for some of you. They have certainly have had no trouble moving your choices to force you to work a weekend.
I emailed the middle shift scheduling sergeant and asked him to "correct this." His answer was no.
I just sent the following email to jail Captain W.:
Captain W.,
The new class counts on the schedule as of Nov. 12th. They are on a 5/2 schedule through the beginning of December even though it is not necessary. As you know one of the biggest complaints with the 28 schedule is the inability to get weekends and Holidays off. This is an opportunity to boost morale amongst the more senior staff who put in for weekends off and the November Holidays and were denied. Simply place the new class on the remaining weekends and Thanksgiving Holidays and allow people off with more seniority who asked for it.
Wade Laszlo
Chief Steward Teamsters Local 320
The ball is in their court. They have an opportunity to make life a little easier for some of you. They have certainly have had no trouble moving your choices to force you to work a weekend.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Survey, Double your pension!!
Today you should have received a Minnesota Teamsters Correctional Officer Legislative Priorities Survey.
Please send in the survey!!
I recommend marking #4 Licensure as lowest priority. This will only guarantee more training at this time and no more money. Licensure is better saved for a stronger economy.
IMPORTANT: Under #5 any other issues write:
Merge the Corrections pension with the Police and Fire pension. The merger would bolster the flailing Police & Fire pension, giving their current members more security. This would not likely be opposed by the Counties as they would save approximately 5% of their wage/benefit budget by not having to pay in Social Security Taxes on our wages. Staff would see an increase in net pay based on this same reduction in taxes. Staff would also have a better retirement benefit.
This is a rare opportunity to make your voice heard loud and clear. You are MNTLEL!
Please send in the survey!!
I recommend marking #4 Licensure as lowest priority. This will only guarantee more training at this time and no more money. Licensure is better saved for a stronger economy.
IMPORTANT: Under #5 any other issues write:
Merge the Corrections pension with the Police and Fire pension. The merger would bolster the flailing Police & Fire pension, giving their current members more security. This would not likely be opposed by the Counties as they would save approximately 5% of their wage/benefit budget by not having to pay in Social Security Taxes on our wages. Staff would see an increase in net pay based on this same reduction in taxes. Staff would also have a better retirement benefit.
This is a rare opportunity to make your voice heard loud and clear. You are MNTLEL!
Friday, September 10, 2010
Harsh Realities
Dear members,
As you know we had contract arbitration on September 9th.
Several of you are under the impression we did not fight for step raises. We did in fact and our initial proposal was for a 2% and 2% cost of living raise, not a freeze.
By the time we hit mediation and certified our items for arbitration AFSCME and the University of Minnesota had already accepted no Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) increase and a step freeze for 2011 setting the pattern. In addition everyone else who did take it to arbitration lost.
Arbitration awards become case law and precedent setting. It would have been impossible to win. As seen by the HCSDA’s arbitration loss just last week.
If Teamsters Local 320 would have fought the step freeze in arbitration and lost, as the licensed deputies did, (and we would have lost) it would have set the pattern for ALL future negotiations and the County would have had an award against us. This would have affected all future negotiations with “case law” on their side every single time they wanted to freeze steps in future contracts. The contract only guarantees starting and top pay.
I’ll give an example. A few years ago both us and the HCSDA tried to get paid parking in the contract. The HCSDA against our request, took it to arbitration and lost. As a result no one in Hennepin County will ever get it and Ramsey County was able to use that arbitrators decision to take away paid parking from their employees within 6 months of that decision.
We only certified what we thought we had a chance of winning. Sometimes you have to fight another day.
There is the sentiment among some that the people at the top were not caring about the less senior members. This is simply not true. The fact is an arbitrator cannot award money if the County can show they don’t have it. The state of Minnesota has not only shorted Hennepin County of $32 million for 2011 but the County board is not raising taxes on Hennepin County’s citizens. To arbitrate a COLA or steps for 2011 would have been a precedent setting guaranteed loss affecting us for years to come. The fact is that senior members at top pay have endured a hard freeze for 4 of the last six years while less senior members got step raises. We even gave up a 1.5% raise two contracts ago to avoid step freezes for those at the bottom. This was not an option this time. Bottom line is Hennepin County has no money.
What are we doing?
Teamsters Local 320 will be at the budget hearing for the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office on October 28th, 2010. The action we can take now is at the County Board level and in future negotiations.
These tough times have been hard on all of us and we are in the same boat. We are doing what we can for you with an eye to the future.
In solidarity,
Wade Laszlo
Chief Steward
As you know we had contract arbitration on September 9th.
Several of you are under the impression we did not fight for step raises. We did in fact and our initial proposal was for a 2% and 2% cost of living raise, not a freeze.
By the time we hit mediation and certified our items for arbitration AFSCME and the University of Minnesota had already accepted no Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) increase and a step freeze for 2011 setting the pattern. In addition everyone else who did take it to arbitration lost.
Arbitration awards become case law and precedent setting. It would have been impossible to win. As seen by the HCSDA’s arbitration loss just last week.
If Teamsters Local 320 would have fought the step freeze in arbitration and lost, as the licensed deputies did, (and we would have lost) it would have set the pattern for ALL future negotiations and the County would have had an award against us. This would have affected all future negotiations with “case law” on their side every single time they wanted to freeze steps in future contracts. The contract only guarantees starting and top pay.
I’ll give an example. A few years ago both us and the HCSDA tried to get paid parking in the contract. The HCSDA against our request, took it to arbitration and lost. As a result no one in Hennepin County will ever get it and Ramsey County was able to use that arbitrators decision to take away paid parking from their employees within 6 months of that decision.
We only certified what we thought we had a chance of winning. Sometimes you have to fight another day.
There is the sentiment among some that the people at the top were not caring about the less senior members. This is simply not true. The fact is an arbitrator cannot award money if the County can show they don’t have it. The state of Minnesota has not only shorted Hennepin County of $32 million for 2011 but the County board is not raising taxes on Hennepin County’s citizens. To arbitrate a COLA or steps for 2011 would have been a precedent setting guaranteed loss affecting us for years to come. The fact is that senior members at top pay have endured a hard freeze for 4 of the last six years while less senior members got step raises. We even gave up a 1.5% raise two contracts ago to avoid step freezes for those at the bottom. This was not an option this time. Bottom line is Hennepin County has no money.
What are we doing?
Teamsters Local 320 will be at the budget hearing for the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office on October 28th, 2010. The action we can take now is at the County Board level and in future negotiations.
These tough times have been hard on all of us and we are in the same boat. We are doing what we can for you with an eye to the future.
In solidarity,
Wade Laszlo
Chief Steward
Aribitration Update
Yesterday, September 9th, we held contract arbitration. I think the hearing went well. The lawyers for both sides have two weeks to submit their briefs. We should have a decision no later then October 24th.
Thursday, September 02, 2010
Your Rights
MSS 241.026 CORRECTIONAL OFFICERS DISCIPLINE PROCEDURES.
Subdivision 1.Definitions.(a) For purposes of this section, the terms defined in this subdivision have the meanings given them.
(b) "Correctional officer" and "officer" mean a person employed by the state, a state correctional facility, or a local correctional or detention facility in a security capacity.
(c) "Formal statement" means the questioning of an officer in the course of obtaining a recorded, stenographic, or signed statement to be used as evidence in a disciplinary proceeding against the officer.
Subd. 2.Applicability.The procedures and provisions of this section apply to state and local correctional authorities.
Subd. 3.Governing formal statement procedures.The formal statement of an officer must be taken according to subdivision 4.
Subd. 4.Place of formal statement.The formal statement must be taken at a facility of the employing or investigating agency or at a place agreed to by the investigating individual and the investigated officer.
Subd. 5.Admissions.Before an officer's formal statement is taken, the officer shall be advised in writing or on the record that admissions made in the course of the formal statement may be used as evidence of misconduct or as a basis for discipline.
Subd. 6.Disclosure of financial records.No employer may require an officer to produce or disclose the officer's personal financial records except pursuant to a valid search warrant or subpoena.
Subd. 7.Release of photographs.No state or local correctional facility or governmental unit may publicly release photographs of an officer without the written permission of the officer, except that the facility or unit may display a photograph of an officer to a prospective witness as part of an agency or unit investigation.
Subd. 8.Disciplinary letter.No disciplinary letter or reprimand may be included in an officer's personnel record unless the officer has been given a copy of the letter or reprimand.
Subd. 9.Retaliatory action prohibited.No officer may be discharged, disciplined, or threatened with discharge or discipline as retaliation for or solely by reason of the officer's exercise of the rights provided by this section.
Subd. 10.Rights not reduced.The rights of officers provided by this section are in addition to and do not diminish the rights and privileges of officers that are provided under an applicable collective bargaining agreement or any other applicable law.
History: 2005 c 136 art 13 s 3
Subdivision 1.Definitions.(a) For purposes of this section, the terms defined in this subdivision have the meanings given them.
(b) "Correctional officer" and "officer" mean a person employed by the state, a state correctional facility, or a local correctional or detention facility in a security capacity.
(c) "Formal statement" means the questioning of an officer in the course of obtaining a recorded, stenographic, or signed statement to be used as evidence in a disciplinary proceeding against the officer.
Subd. 2.Applicability.The procedures and provisions of this section apply to state and local correctional authorities.
Subd. 3.Governing formal statement procedures.The formal statement of an officer must be taken according to subdivision 4.
Subd. 4.Place of formal statement.The formal statement must be taken at a facility of the employing or investigating agency or at a place agreed to by the investigating individual and the investigated officer.
Subd. 5.Admissions.Before an officer's formal statement is taken, the officer shall be advised in writing or on the record that admissions made in the course of the formal statement may be used as evidence of misconduct or as a basis for discipline.
Subd. 6.Disclosure of financial records.No employer may require an officer to produce or disclose the officer's personal financial records except pursuant to a valid search warrant or subpoena.
Subd. 7.Release of photographs.No state or local correctional facility or governmental unit may publicly release photographs of an officer without the written permission of the officer, except that the facility or unit may display a photograph of an officer to a prospective witness as part of an agency or unit investigation.
Subd. 8.Disciplinary letter.No disciplinary letter or reprimand may be included in an officer's personnel record unless the officer has been given a copy of the letter or reprimand.
Subd. 9.Retaliatory action prohibited.No officer may be discharged, disciplined, or threatened with discharge or discipline as retaliation for or solely by reason of the officer's exercise of the rights provided by this section.
Subd. 10.Rights not reduced.The rights of officers provided by this section are in addition to and do not diminish the rights and privileges of officers that are provided under an applicable collective bargaining agreement or any other applicable law.
History: 2005 c 136 art 13 s 3
Monday, August 30, 2010
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Pushing Ahead
I will have forms available soon for you to add to your MNTLEL survey when it comes out. Fill out the forms and add it to the envelope. Let's have a united front and turn them in together!
*Show MNTLEL we want a merge of our pension with Police and Fire. This doubles our pension, gives Police and Fire money, saves the County money and gives us a raise because we will no longer have to pay Social Security.
*We want a seat on the PERA Board to monitor our pension.
*We want the Corrections Bill of Rights to have teeth.
Licensure may be nice, but guarantees nothing except more training, the Pension is long term.
ENDORSEMENT NEWS: THE HCSDA ENDORSED SHERIFF STANEK!
What did they gain? Nothing.
Fact: According to the County Attorney's Office with the stroke of his pen Sheriff Stanek can restore the 1.5% inconvenient work schedule pay as he promised when we switched to the 28 day schedule. Instead they and us are having to arbitrate! HCSDA what have you gained? He can now say Labor Endorsed. Please tell me what he has done for Labor? Licensed staff has been hurt just as bad by the 28 day schedule, a little solidarity would have been huge. While you didn't have to go the lengths us Teamsters did and VOTE NO CONFIDENCE, you had the power not to endorse.
*Show MNTLEL we want a merge of our pension with Police and Fire. This doubles our pension, gives Police and Fire money, saves the County money and gives us a raise because we will no longer have to pay Social Security.
*We want a seat on the PERA Board to monitor our pension.
*We want the Corrections Bill of Rights to have teeth.
Licensure may be nice, but guarantees nothing except more training, the Pension is long term.
ENDORSEMENT NEWS: THE HCSDA ENDORSED SHERIFF STANEK!
What did they gain? Nothing.
Fact: According to the County Attorney's Office with the stroke of his pen Sheriff Stanek can restore the 1.5% inconvenient work schedule pay as he promised when we switched to the 28 day schedule. Instead they and us are having to arbitrate! HCSDA what have you gained? He can now say Labor Endorsed. Please tell me what he has done for Labor? Licensed staff has been hurt just as bad by the 28 day schedule, a little solidarity would have been huge. While you didn't have to go the lengths us Teamsters did and VOTE NO CONFIDENCE, you had the power not to endorse.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Survey and Priorities
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
Teamsters MNTLEL will be sending out a survey regarding MNTLEL priorities. I recommend that you check 'other' on the survey and mark down PENSION as number one.
There are several of us that are working to merge our pension with Police and Fire. This will double your benefit, save the county money by eliminating payments to Social Security and give you a raise in the amount you currently pay to Social Security. It's been 10 years since our BA Tom Perkins worked to get our correctional pension. It's time for equality with our other MNTLEL brethren.
Remember, YOU are the Union, take advantage of this survey.
Reminder: Contract Arbitration is set for September 9th.
Wade Laszlo
Chief Steward
Teamsters MNTLEL will be sending out a survey regarding MNTLEL priorities. I recommend that you check 'other' on the survey and mark down PENSION as number one.
There are several of us that are working to merge our pension with Police and Fire. This will double your benefit, save the county money by eliminating payments to Social Security and give you a raise in the amount you currently pay to Social Security. It's been 10 years since our BA Tom Perkins worked to get our correctional pension. It's time for equality with our other MNTLEL brethren.
Remember, YOU are the Union, take advantage of this survey.
Reminder: Contract Arbitration is set for September 9th.
Wade Laszlo
Chief Steward
Update backpay
Teamsters Local 320 members no longer will have to submit an individual request to get their overtime back pay, we now have blanket coverage.
I believe Detention Tech Dave Bentzen deserves a pat on the back for discovering this and pursuing it so relentlessly!
I believe Detention Tech Dave Bentzen deserves a pat on the back for discovering this and pursuing it so relentlessly!
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
The record straight on overtime backpay!
The Jail Inspector has posted a special order regarding the overtime we were all shorted the past few years. She says Hennepin County Human Resources is working on it if you already submitted a request.
She goes on to say that,"the Sheriff's Licensed Deputy union has made a blanket request of the Human Resources department to research overtime pay for it's membership--no further correspondence from its membership is necessary."
Seriously?
Here's a copy of an email I sent to the Jail Inspector and the contact from Hennepin County Human Resources payroll:
Thanks for the 'Special Order' regarding backpay. Inspector Martin you point out that the licensed deputies have a 'blanket' request. Is there a reason all Teamster 320 members have to continue to ask for this individually? Mr. Oleness in an email to you on 7/26 I asked this same question about blanket coverage. Can you just extend this blanket request to all of us. After all this is the result of a Teamster Detention Tech filing a class action grievance then being referred to the Department of Labor by our Teamsters business agent.
Thanks,
Wade Laszlo
Chief Steward Teamsters Local 320
Am I to deduce a similar request made by Teamsters doesn't count? Hey, we told the licensed association about this.
The credit goes to Dave Bentzen and our business agent Tom Perkins.
The shame goes to Hennepin County. You knew the pay was wrong when you switched to APEX last October.
Should we trust you to figure it out for us?
You avoided all of our inquires when APEX came about. If you know the pay is owed why do licensed deputies get it handed to them but Teamsters must ask individually?
Just another reason Teamsters Union members voted no confidence in Sheriff Stanek!
She goes on to say that,"the Sheriff's Licensed Deputy union has made a blanket request of the Human Resources department to research overtime pay for it's membership--no further correspondence from its membership is necessary."
Seriously?
Here's a copy of an email I sent to the Jail Inspector and the contact from Hennepin County Human Resources payroll:
Thanks for the 'Special Order' regarding backpay. Inspector Martin you point out that the licensed deputies have a 'blanket' request. Is there a reason all Teamster 320 members have to continue to ask for this individually? Mr. Oleness in an email to you on 7/26 I asked this same question about blanket coverage. Can you just extend this blanket request to all of us. After all this is the result of a Teamster Detention Tech filing a class action grievance then being referred to the Department of Labor by our Teamsters business agent.
Thanks,
Wade Laszlo
Chief Steward Teamsters Local 320
Am I to deduce a similar request made by Teamsters doesn't count? Hey, we told the licensed association about this.
The credit goes to Dave Bentzen and our business agent Tom Perkins.
The shame goes to Hennepin County. You knew the pay was wrong when you switched to APEX last October.
Should we trust you to figure it out for us?
You avoided all of our inquires when APEX came about. If you know the pay is owed why do licensed deputies get it handed to them but Teamsters must ask individually?
Just another reason Teamsters Union members voted no confidence in Sheriff Stanek!
Tuesday, August 03, 2010
Top local Teamster splits with Hoffa
Longtime Twin Cities labor leader Tom Keegel dropped out of the union's leadership campaign after running three times as Hoffa's No. 2 man. Star Tribune
Full Story
Tom Keegel is a man that has been our friend for years. He also personally blocked Sheriff Stanek's attempt for a Teamsters endorsement in 2006.
Tom Keegel's Career
Tom Keegel's Retirement Letter
Full Story
Tom Keegel is a man that has been our friend for years. He also personally blocked Sheriff Stanek's attempt for a Teamsters endorsement in 2006.
Tom Keegel's Career
Tom Keegel's Retirement Letter
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
You May Be Owed Back Pay
A while ago Detention Tech Dave B. filed a class action grievance regarding incorrect overtime calculations. As many of us learned first hand contacting Sheriff's Office payroll and County payroll was useless. We all remember the rude responses since APEX. So Dave B. filed a grievance. The Sheriff's Office and County denied it so our BA Tom Perkins sent Dave to the Department of Labor informed him about the procedure and who to contact. Dave is now getting backpay and you can too.
You need to add up all of your overtime from July 1, 2008 to October 10, 2009 (APEX inception).
The following info came from Dave B.:
If you feel your overtime was not correctly figured or paid to you and afte rCounty payroll did not help, you should contact Investigator Ferris or the DOLWage & Hour Division Office for assistance.
ATTEN:
V. Ferris InvestigatorUS D.O.L.Wage & Hour Division
Minneapolis, MN612-370-3341 office reception / 612-370-3377 direct line
Dave has a table on the EGROUP. The time table starts at Jul 2008 to Oct 2009 (APEX started) to figure what is backpay owed. The longer anyone waits to request their backpay the less they may be getting. You would need to contact SH.PAYROLL to request any backpay.
The long and short is run your OT, especially if you get Stability Pay, all of that and weekend and night differentials are to be calculated into overtime. APEX does that so you are owed pre-APEX. This is money owed you!
You need to add up all of your overtime from July 1, 2008 to October 10, 2009 (APEX inception).
The following info came from Dave B.:
If you feel your overtime was not correctly figured or paid to you and afte rCounty payroll did not help, you should contact Investigator Ferris or the DOLWage & Hour Division Office for assistance.
ATTEN:
V. Ferris InvestigatorUS D.O.L.Wage & Hour Division
Minneapolis, MN612-370-3341 office reception / 612-370-3377 direct line
Dave has a table on the EGROUP. The time table starts at Jul 2008 to Oct 2009 (APEX started) to figure what is backpay owed. The longer anyone waits to request their backpay the less they may be getting. You would need to contact SH.PAYROLL to request any backpay.
The long and short is run your OT, especially if you get Stability Pay, all of that and weekend and night differentials are to be calculated into overtime. APEX does that so you are owed pre-APEX. This is money owed you!
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Take a math class Star Tribune!
Maybe someone can interpret this for me:
Star Tribune reporter Matt McKinney is reporting:
15 homicides aside, serious crime drops on North Side
Violent crime is still up on the North Side, but serious crime as a whole has fallen 3 percent there. Star Tribune
The article goes on to say:
The overall trend for violent crime -- rape, murder, robbery and aggravated assault -- shows a 10.2 percent increase in the Fourth Precinct, the name the police use for the North Side. But the area has seen sharp drops in burglary (down 21 percent), arson (down 37 percent) and rape (down 19 percent), and smaller numbers in those categories mean a drop in the total count of Part 1 crimes.
So if I read this correctly, homicides are up, rape, murder, robbery and aggravated assault -- shows a 10.2 percent increase in the Fourth Precinct but burglaries and rapes are down? Yes, rape is up and down.
I don't think I'll be moving there anytime soon! Especially since the fourth precinct had another homicide since this story came out.
Oh and Matt McKinney is the reporter who never ran our No Confidence Vote.
Star Tribune reporter Matt McKinney is reporting:
15 homicides aside, serious crime drops on North Side
Violent crime is still up on the North Side, but serious crime as a whole has fallen 3 percent there. Star Tribune
The article goes on to say:
The overall trend for violent crime -- rape, murder, robbery and aggravated assault -- shows a 10.2 percent increase in the Fourth Precinct, the name the police use for the North Side. But the area has seen sharp drops in burglary (down 21 percent), arson (down 37 percent) and rape (down 19 percent), and smaller numbers in those categories mean a drop in the total count of Part 1 crimes.
So if I read this correctly, homicides are up, rape, murder, robbery and aggravated assault -- shows a 10.2 percent increase in the Fourth Precinct but burglaries and rapes are down? Yes, rape is up and down.
I don't think I'll be moving there anytime soon! Especially since the fourth precinct had another homicide since this story came out.
Oh and Matt McKinney is the reporter who never ran our No Confidence Vote.
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Monday, July 05, 2010
Thursday, July 01, 2010
Nurses Settle: The Power of a Strike
The MNA and Twin Cities hospitals have reached an agreement.
The union also posted a statement to members on its website, saying “all the hospitals’ takebacks and concessions are GONE, the pension is untouched and all the benefits of your current contract (including MNA Health Insurance, etc.) remain in place as they always have been. In essence your entire contract has been completely protected and preserved. We will be having an all-member vote early next week (probably July 6 or 7) to officially ratify the contract.”
The union also agreed to drop a series of unfair-labor practice charges that it had filed against the hospitals during the contentious negotiations, Schriner said. (Full story Star Tribune)
The power of the strike is awesome. The very threat (with the will to follow through) can result in contract settlements. The right to strike is labor's backbone.
Our own Teamsters Local 320 had a strike against Hennepin County in 1981 that resulted in much of what we have today.
The union also posted a statement to members on its website, saying “all the hospitals’ takebacks and concessions are GONE, the pension is untouched and all the benefits of your current contract (including MNA Health Insurance, etc.) remain in place as they always have been. In essence your entire contract has been completely protected and preserved. We will be having an all-member vote early next week (probably July 6 or 7) to officially ratify the contract.”
The union also agreed to drop a series of unfair-labor practice charges that it had filed against the hospitals during the contentious negotiations, Schriner said. (Full story Star Tribune)
The power of the strike is awesome. The very threat (with the will to follow through) can result in contract settlements. The right to strike is labor's backbone.
Our own Teamsters Local 320 had a strike against Hennepin County in 1981 that resulted in much of what we have today.
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Monday, June 21, 2010
June Update
The grievance I filed regarding changing into uniforms on the clock has been denied again. The county is citing the FLSA and says because the Waseca decision was based on FLSA not our contract they are under no obligation to go to arbitration.
Compare this to a recent Department of Labor ruling: DOL Reverses Its Position On Donning And Doffing "Protective Equipment" In Union Setting June 18, 2010 11:49, and IBP v. Alvarez, 126 S.Ct. 514 (2005). This should prove interesting.
This has been returned to Teamsters Local 320 for further action. Probably court. Several other metro area jails have done the same thing.
Dave B. has filed a grievance on behalf of the techs regarding the rate their overtime is calculated (they fall under FLSA for OT). This is going to step 2.
The state still has not given us a date for our contract arbitration.
Compare this to a recent Department of Labor ruling: DOL Reverses Its Position On Donning And Doffing "Protective Equipment" In Union Setting June 18, 2010 11:49, and IBP v. Alvarez, 126 S.Ct. 514 (2005). This should prove interesting.
This has been returned to Teamsters Local 320 for further action. Probably court. Several other metro area jails have done the same thing.
Dave B. has filed a grievance on behalf of the techs regarding the rate their overtime is calculated (they fall under FLSA for OT). This is going to step 2.
The state still has not given us a date for our contract arbitration.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Fact or Fiction?
The Star Tribune has an excellent article about the now defunct Gang Strike Task Force.
There's enough sludge to chew on for a while, but one of the more interesting segments deals with the information or misinformation, coming from the HCSO:
Hennepin County Sheriff Rich Stanek, who with Campion backed the inquiries that brought the Strike Force down, says his department did not rely on the unit, "and now that they are gone, we do not miss them."
Stanek created a countywide antigang strategy with assistance from suburban police. He said violent crime in the county is down 29 percent.
Really? But wait in the same article:
In Minneapolis, though, homicides rose from four last year at this time to 21 so far this year. While violent crime is up over last year, it is "well within the average range for the past five years," said Deputy Police Chief Rob Allen. The increase still is unacceptable, he said, and the city is working hard to reduce it.
Which part is fact and which part is fiction?
Seriously, either violent crime is down or it's up. Or perhaps Minneapolis is no longer part of Hennepin County.
I know the administration reads this blog, please post on it and back up the claim.
There's enough sludge to chew on for a while, but one of the more interesting segments deals with the information or misinformation, coming from the HCSO:
Hennepin County Sheriff Rich Stanek, who with Campion backed the inquiries that brought the Strike Force down, says his department did not rely on the unit, "and now that they are gone, we do not miss them."
Stanek created a countywide antigang strategy with assistance from suburban police. He said violent crime in the county is down 29 percent.
Really? But wait in the same article:
In Minneapolis, though, homicides rose from four last year at this time to 21 so far this year. While violent crime is up over last year, it is "well within the average range for the past five years," said Deputy Police Chief Rob Allen. The increase still is unacceptable, he said, and the city is working hard to reduce it.
Which part is fact and which part is fiction?
Seriously, either violent crime is down or it's up. Or perhaps Minneapolis is no longer part of Hennepin County.
I know the administration reads this blog, please post on it and back up the claim.
Saturday, May 29, 2010
The Labor Movements' hypocrisy
As all of you know I'm pro-labor. The labor movement is big, millions and millions of men and women. Big enough that there is always going to be differences of political opinion. That's all well and good. But when large unions with millions of members dollars play both sides of the fence, then this Teamster has something to say.
Two big players in the Change to Win Coalition are the Teamsters and the SEIU.
Workday Minnesota is reporting the story:UFCW, SEIU lead suit against Arizona immigration law. The UFCW and SEIU are pro-illegal immigration and pro-NAFTA.
On the other hand the Teamsters Rally to Keep Border Closed and Teamsters Oppose Trade Deal That Sells Out American Workers. The Teamsters are against NAFTA, especially the trucking laws allowing Mexican trucks on US highways.
The SEIU even protested our Teamsters shop, the Hennepin County jail recently because we hold illegal aliens for ICE. Imagine that, one Change to Win organization protesting another for doing their job!
So I'll discuss the elephant in organized labor's room. On the one hand we have the Teamsters wanting out of NAFTA and secure borders and on the other hand the SEIU wanting open borders and bleeding US jobs.
How can Change to Win simultaneously hold these two views. On the one hand secure borders and jobs and on the other not only supporting NAFTA but even allowing workers to illegally enter the US and take jobs from US workers.
Well, which is it? Is this about internationalism or U.S. jobs? Put me down for U.S. jobs.
Two big players in the Change to Win Coalition are the Teamsters and the SEIU.
Workday Minnesota is reporting the story:UFCW, SEIU lead suit against Arizona immigration law. The UFCW and SEIU are pro-illegal immigration and pro-NAFTA.
On the other hand the Teamsters Rally to Keep Border Closed and Teamsters Oppose Trade Deal That Sells Out American Workers. The Teamsters are against NAFTA, especially the trucking laws allowing Mexican trucks on US highways.
The SEIU even protested our Teamsters shop, the Hennepin County jail recently because we hold illegal aliens for ICE. Imagine that, one Change to Win organization protesting another for doing their job!
So I'll discuss the elephant in organized labor's room. On the one hand we have the Teamsters wanting out of NAFTA and secure borders and on the other hand the SEIU wanting open borders and bleeding US jobs.
How can Change to Win simultaneously hold these two views. On the one hand secure borders and jobs and on the other not only supporting NAFTA but even allowing workers to illegally enter the US and take jobs from US workers.
Well, which is it? Is this about internationalism or U.S. jobs? Put me down for U.S. jobs.
Friday, May 28, 2010
Good bye Fares
Fares Daoud retired on May 26th after 24 years of service to the Sheriff's Office as a Detention Deputy. The jail will not be the same without him. He had a very nice turnout at his retirement party at work and a good turnout at Elsies afterwards. Good Luck Fares.Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Mike Nifong
Who is Mike Nifong?
Michael Byron Nifong (born September 14, 1950) is a disbarred North Carolina attorney.[2] He was district attorney for Durham County, North Carolina (the state's 14th Prosecutorial District), but was removed and disbarred due to his misconduct in the 2006 Duke University lacrosse case.[3] Observers consider several criminal justice bills passed by the North Carolina legislature later that same year to have been influenced by Nifong's actions in the Duke lacrosse case.[4] (Wikipedia)
Why am I posting this?
Last Friday a Kastigar hearing took place in Ramsey County because of violated rights of one of our members. A Kastigar or taint hearing takes place to determine if 5th Amendment (aka Garrity) protected material was used to wrongfully prosecute someone. This was a closed hearing and I can say nothing more then it took place.
Some should be fearful, some should be happy soon.
But, hey this has come from the HCSO before. Read here.
Michael Byron Nifong (born September 14, 1950) is a disbarred North Carolina attorney.[2] He was district attorney for Durham County, North Carolina (the state's 14th Prosecutorial District), but was removed and disbarred due to his misconduct in the 2006 Duke University lacrosse case.[3] Observers consider several criminal justice bills passed by the North Carolina legislature later that same year to have been influenced by Nifong's actions in the Duke lacrosse case.[4] (Wikipedia)
Why am I posting this?
Last Friday a Kastigar hearing took place in Ramsey County because of violated rights of one of our members. A Kastigar or taint hearing takes place to determine if 5th Amendment (aka Garrity) protected material was used to wrongfully prosecute someone. This was a closed hearing and I can say nothing more then it took place.
Some should be fearful, some should be happy soon.
But, hey this has come from the HCSO before. Read here.
Monday, May 24, 2010
2010 DRIVE endoresments
Why is a DRIVE endorsement important? Because DRIVE endorses politicians that are pro-labor. These are people who support our pension and other legislative efforts. You may not like a particular candidate's point of view on everything but these folks have passed the pro-labor litmus test. It's also important who's NOT endorsed.
2010 DRIVE Endorsements – MINNESOTA
U.S. Congress
District
1 Tim Walz
3 Jim Meffert
4 Betty McCollum
5 Keith Ellison
6 Tarryl Clark
7 Collin Peterson
8 James Oberstar
Governor
Mark Dayton
Secretary of State
Mark Ritchie
State Auditor
Rebecca Otto
Attorney General
Lori Swanson
State Senate
District
5 David Tomassoni
9 Keith Langseth
17 Rick Olseen
37 Mark Germain
39 James Metzen
43 Terri Bonoff
49 Paul Meunier
59 Lawrence Pogemiller
64 Richard Cohen
State House of Representatives
District
3B Loren Solberg
26B Patti Fritz
46A Mike Nelson
49B Jerry Newton
58A Joe Mullery
62A Jim Davnie
65A Jeremiah Ellis
67B Sheldon Johnson
Anoka County
Commissioner
District
4 Jim Kordiak
Sheriff
James Stuart
Hennepin County
Attorney
Mike Freeman
Commissioner
District
2 Mark Stenglein
Ramsey County
Attorney
John Choi
Commissioner
District 5
Rafael Ortega
Sheriff
Bob Fletcher
Brooklyn Center
Mayor
Tim Willson
Maplewood
City Council
Marvin Koppen
2010 DRIVE Endorsements – MINNESOTA
U.S. Congress
District
1 Tim Walz
3 Jim Meffert
4 Betty McCollum
5 Keith Ellison
6 Tarryl Clark
7 Collin Peterson
8 James Oberstar
Governor
Mark Dayton
Secretary of State
Mark Ritchie
State Auditor
Rebecca Otto
Attorney General
Lori Swanson
State Senate
District
5 David Tomassoni
9 Keith Langseth
17 Rick Olseen
37 Mark Germain
39 James Metzen
43 Terri Bonoff
49 Paul Meunier
59 Lawrence Pogemiller
64 Richard Cohen
State House of Representatives
District
3B Loren Solberg
26B Patti Fritz
46A Mike Nelson
49B Jerry Newton
58A Joe Mullery
62A Jim Davnie
65A Jeremiah Ellis
67B Sheldon Johnson
Anoka County
Commissioner
District
4 Jim Kordiak
Sheriff
James Stuart
Hennepin County
Attorney
Mike Freeman
Commissioner
District
2 Mark Stenglein
Ramsey County
Attorney
John Choi
Commissioner
District 5
Rafael Ortega
Sheriff
Bob Fletcher
Brooklyn Center
Mayor
Tim Willson
Maplewood
City Council
Marvin Koppen
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Seriously sick of this misinformation crap
The Star Tribune is falsely reporting: A witness in two murder cases was beaten up by the man he implicated when the two were inadvertently put in the same holding cell at the Hennepin County jail, according to charges filed Thursday.
I'm sick to death of the jail getting blamed for other divisions screw ups. These inmates were put together not in the jail, but in the holding cells at court. The article goes on to say, The witness was not seriously hurt, said Lisa Kiava, a spokeswoman for the Hennepin County Sheriff's Office.
Isn't Lisa Kiava supposed to provide facts? How about telling the press where the assault actually occurred?
Of course we've all seen the "red ribbons" being passed out to everyone who assisted in the RNC, everyone except the Detention Deputies and techs. During the RNC all days off were cancelled, all days were 12 hours long (22 hours on one day for the SRT Team when a busload of protesters was being processed) and we worked anywhere from 15 to 20 days in a row depending on what squad we were on.
So it appears we get blamed for other divisions screw ups and get no credit for our hard work. What else is new?
I'm sick to death of the jail getting blamed for other divisions screw ups. These inmates were put together not in the jail, but in the holding cells at court. The article goes on to say, The witness was not seriously hurt, said Lisa Kiava, a spokeswoman for the Hennepin County Sheriff's Office.
Isn't Lisa Kiava supposed to provide facts? How about telling the press where the assault actually occurred?
Of course we've all seen the "red ribbons" being passed out to everyone who assisted in the RNC, everyone except the Detention Deputies and techs. During the RNC all days off were cancelled, all days were 12 hours long (22 hours on one day for the SRT Team when a busload of protesters was being processed) and we worked anywhere from 15 to 20 days in a row depending on what squad we were on.
So it appears we get blamed for other divisions screw ups and get no credit for our hard work. What else is new?
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
New Grievance Filed Over Start Time
I filed a new grievance over start times in light of the AFGE Local 801 and Waseca Federal Correctional Institution Arbitration Opinion & Award.
It has been the Union's contention that our workday starts and ends in the locker room. This Arbitration decision combined with the fact that:
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 Should greatly increase our chance of success.
It has been the Union's contention that our workday starts and ends in the locker room. This Arbitration decision combined with the fact that:
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 Should greatly increase our chance of success.
Thursday, May 06, 2010
Does this sound familiar?
Deputies Attacked - Told Not to File Charges
Source Teamsters Local 320 website
Source Teamsters Local 320 website
Wednesday, May 05, 2010
Waseca Arbitration Award for start times
Arbitrator upholds key box to key box compensation. AFGE Local 801 and Waseca Federal Correctional Institution Arbitration Opinion & Award. This Minnesota arbitration award agrees with our grievance settlement that you must be paid key box to key box. Your day begins in line to get your keys and ends when they are returned.
Thanks to the MNTLEL for passing on this info.
I still believe we should continue to the next step and be paid for donning and doffing our uniforms. 320?
If you haven't already check out the Teamsters Local 320's new website.
Thanks to the MNTLEL for passing on this info.
I still believe we should continue to the next step and be paid for donning and doffing our uniforms. 320?
If you haven't already check out the Teamsters Local 320's new website.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Monday, April 19, 2010
What happans if your employer violates Data Privacy?
Anyone who goes to Internal Affairs is required to sign a Garrity and Tenneson Warning.
Garrity protects your statements from being used against you criminally. Tenneson protects your privacy. Read my Internal Affairs Primer for more info.
So what happens when your employer illegally releases protected information? Ask the Minneapolis Police Department:
A Minneapolis police lieutenant since demoted to sergeant and his attorney will share a $75,000 settlement of his lawsuit that claimed the city defamed him and improperly disclosed news of his suspension. (Star Tribune)
Also read this Ohio case which discusses a Garrity violation:
In other words, a public employer or a public official, who compel an employee’s testimony but then violate Garrity by turning the statement over to the police or use the statement in criminal proceedings, could be held personally liable for violating the employee’s constitutional rights. This may be a powerful incentive for employers and officials, who utilize Garrity to compel testimony, to actually comply with Garrity.
Garrity protects your statements from being used against you criminally. Tenneson protects your privacy. Read my Internal Affairs Primer for more info.
So what happens when your employer illegally releases protected information? Ask the Minneapolis Police Department:
A Minneapolis police lieutenant since demoted to sergeant and his attorney will share a $75,000 settlement of his lawsuit that claimed the city defamed him and improperly disclosed news of his suspension. (Star Tribune)
Also read this Ohio case which discusses a Garrity violation:
In other words, a public employer or a public official, who compel an employee’s testimony but then violate Garrity by turning the statement over to the police or use the statement in criminal proceedings, could be held personally liable for violating the employee’s constitutional rights. This may be a powerful incentive for employers and officials, who utilize Garrity to compel testimony, to actually comply with Garrity.
Our own Sheriff's Office made the law books by violating 2 detention deputy's Garrity rights in State of Minnesota vs. Gault, Zielke. This case was upheld all the way to the Minnesota Supreme Court.
This is serious business.
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Our 2 on 2 guard, compliments of Washington State!
READ who you are sitting with:
Gregory Bowles will be released today (Thursday) from the Washington State Prison in Monroe. He's served his time for severely beating a Bellingham man with a baton. But those who've worked with Bowles have concerns about his release. The concern is that he's still violent and may assault someone. Bowles will be monitored in a state program as he re–enters the community.
Gregory Bowles is 27 years old. He's been diagnosed as mentally ill. And recently, he's been suicidal.
He's one of 200 men and women currently classified by the state as a Dangerous Mentally Ill Offender or DMIO. After he's released from the Monroe Correctional Facility, Bowles will have two options. He could be sent to Western State Hospital for a three–day psychiatric hold. Or he could go to a hotel in downtown Seattle.
FULL STORY
State Plans to Release Dangerous, Mentally Ill Offender to King County
Gregory Bowles will be released today (Thursday) from the Washington State Prison in Monroe. He's served his time for severely beating a Bellingham man with a baton. But those who've worked with Bowles have concerns about his release. The concern is that he's still violent and may assault someone. Bowles will be monitored in a state program as he re–enters the community.
Gregory Bowles is 27 years old. He's been diagnosed as mentally ill. And recently, he's been suicidal.
He's one of 200 men and women currently classified by the state as a Dangerous Mentally Ill Offender or DMIO. After he's released from the Monroe Correctional Facility, Bowles will have two options. He could be sent to Western State Hospital for a three–day psychiatric hold. Or he could go to a hotel in downtown Seattle.
FULL STORY
State Plans to Release Dangerous, Mentally Ill Offender to King County
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Saturday, April 03, 2010
Rick Kuster has passed away
Detention Tech and former Union Steward Rick Kuster has passed away.
Visitation Wednesday 3:00 PM with services at 5:00 PM at SANDBERG FUNERAL HOME, 2593 E. 7th Avneue, North St. Paul. Social Gathering immediately following at Neumann's Bar and Grill in North St. Paul. 651-777-2600
Visitation Wednesday 3:00 PM with services at 5:00 PM at SANDBERG FUNERAL HOME, 2593 E. 7th Avneue, North St. Paul. Social Gathering immediately following at Neumann's Bar and Grill in North St. Paul. 651-777-2600
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Schedule Facts for Teamsters
There are lies flying around the jail that are causing division amongst co-workers both Detention and Licensed. I have written the following to clear the air:
Schedule Facts for Teamsters
Fact: The schedule is an inherent managerial right. (Minnesota State Statute 179A.07, Agreement Article 6, Sec. 1.)
Fact: Sheriff Stanek chose to put us on the 28/8 schedule against the wishes of the Teamsters Union.
Fact: Teamsters Union Steward Miles conducted an informal poll of our members regarding schedule choices including 12 hour days. The Administration would not consider at it.
Fact: Teamsters Business Agent Tom Perkins wanted to conduct an official poll of all Teamsters Local 320 members regarding various schedules. The response was, “This is not a negotiation. This is a notification.” We were told they wouldn’t even look at it.
Fact: During negotiations a few weeks ago we offered up several schedule options including 12 hour days, 10 hour days and 6/3. They were not interested in moving from the 28/8 schedule.
Fact: Both Hennepin County and Teamsters Local 320 have certified their contract items for arbitration. Hennepin County certified no changes for the schedule or language relating to it.
Fact: The Hennepin County Sheriff’s Deputy Association (HCSDA) is currently discussing a 12 hour day schedule with Hennepin County Sheriff’s Administration.
Lie: The Teamsters are standing in the way of a 12 hour schedule.
Fact: Sheriff Stanek could exercise inherent managerial right and place all job classes on a 12 hour day at any time, or return us to 6/3 if he chooses.
Fact: The Teamsters did not support the switch to the 28 day schedule. It was imposed by inherent managerial right. The Sheriff exercising that same right can change the schedule with the stroke of a pen.
Fact: This is Sheriff Stanek’s schedule.
Footnote: Those of you who are angry because you can't get a weekend off or even days off together remember this is NOT because we are standing in the way of a 12 hour day. It is because Sheriff Stanek took us off of 6/3 and placed us on this 28/8 schedule. A schedule used by no other jail in the country!
Schedule Facts for Teamsters
Fact: The schedule is an inherent managerial right. (Minnesota State Statute 179A.07, Agreement Article 6, Sec. 1.)
Fact: Sheriff Stanek chose to put us on the 28/8 schedule against the wishes of the Teamsters Union.
Fact: Teamsters Union Steward Miles conducted an informal poll of our members regarding schedule choices including 12 hour days. The Administration would not consider at it.
Fact: Teamsters Business Agent Tom Perkins wanted to conduct an official poll of all Teamsters Local 320 members regarding various schedules. The response was, “This is not a negotiation. This is a notification.” We were told they wouldn’t even look at it.
Fact: During negotiations a few weeks ago we offered up several schedule options including 12 hour days, 10 hour days and 6/3. They were not interested in moving from the 28/8 schedule.
Fact: Both Hennepin County and Teamsters Local 320 have certified their contract items for arbitration. Hennepin County certified no changes for the schedule or language relating to it.
Fact: The Hennepin County Sheriff’s Deputy Association (HCSDA) is currently discussing a 12 hour day schedule with Hennepin County Sheriff’s Administration.
Lie: The Teamsters are standing in the way of a 12 hour schedule.
Fact: Sheriff Stanek could exercise inherent managerial right and place all job classes on a 12 hour day at any time, or return us to 6/3 if he chooses.
Fact: The Teamsters did not support the switch to the 28 day schedule. It was imposed by inherent managerial right. The Sheriff exercising that same right can change the schedule with the stroke of a pen.
Fact: This is Sheriff Stanek’s schedule.
Footnote: Those of you who are angry because you can't get a weekend off or even days off together remember this is NOT because we are standing in the way of a 12 hour day. It is because Sheriff Stanek took us off of 6/3 and placed us on this 28/8 schedule. A schedule used by no other jail in the country!
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
The Schedule: Employers Right
There is talk floating around about going to a 12 hour day. There are intimations that somehow it is up to the Unions to decide the schedule. Not so. Under both Labor Law and our Contract Sheriff Stanek with the stroke of a pen could put us on 12 hour days or return to 6/3 exactly like he put us on the 28 day schedule.
The Law:
A public employer is not required to meet and negotiate on matters of inherent managerial policy. Matters of inherent managerial policy include, but are not limited to, such areas of discretion or policy as the functions and programs of the employer, its overall budget, utilization of technology, the organizational structure, selection of personnel, and direction and the number of personnel. MS 179A.07 RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS OF EMPLOYERS.
Our Contract mirrors identical language in Artilce 6, section 1.
In other words we are on this schedule solely because the Sheriff wants us on it. He and he alone made that decision. It didn't matter that virtually no one wanted the 28 day schedule. To pretend they suddenly care about what schedule the employees want and to go through the charade of considering something else is disingenuous and a smoke screen.
The Law:
A public employer is not required to meet and negotiate on matters of inherent managerial policy. Matters of inherent managerial policy include, but are not limited to, such areas of discretion or policy as the functions and programs of the employer, its overall budget, utilization of technology, the organizational structure, selection of personnel, and direction and the number of personnel. MS 179A.07 RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS OF EMPLOYERS.
Our Contract mirrors identical language in Artilce 6, section 1.
In other words we are on this schedule solely because the Sheriff wants us on it. He and he alone made that decision. It didn't matter that virtually no one wanted the 28 day schedule. To pretend they suddenly care about what schedule the employees want and to go through the charade of considering something else is disingenuous and a smoke screen.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Legislative Priority
The time has come for the passage of the CORRECTIONS OFFICERS BILL OF RIGHTS. In 2002 our B.A. Tom Perkins introduced the Bill in the Minnesota Senate. It has languished. In this, a year with no money, the time has come for its' passage. The language is similar to the Peace Officers Bill of Rights but applies to our profession. It's time we had the same protections given to cops. It's time to join forces with the State Corrections Officers on this and other vital issues. They make up 70% of Corrections Officers in Minnesota. The time has come to join forces in solidarity for our mutual benefit.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Funeral for Moriah Ann Cooper
Detention Deputy Cartrell Cooper's daughter, Moriah Ann Cooper has passed away. There is a card at work to express your support at this difficult time. For those who can attend:
The funeral will be on Tuesday March 22nd, 2-4 PM
Estes Funeral Chapel
2210 Plymouth Avenue North
Minneapolis, MN 55411-3600
(612) 521-6744
The funeral will be on Tuesday March 22nd, 2-4 PM
Estes Funeral Chapel
2210 Plymouth Avenue North
Minneapolis, MN 55411-3600
(612) 521-6744
Friday, February 19, 2010
Primetime Vacation Update
With the advent of the 28 day schedule came another problem to solve. Primetime Vacations. Steward Westerdahl and I met with Hennepin County Labor Relations and the HCSO administration to determine what would be considered a 'work week' when putting in for Primetime Vacation.
Article 12, Sec. 4 of our Agreement says we can designate 1 to 3 consecutive 'work weeks' as Prime Time Vacation. There is no definition of 'work week' in our contract. Under the 6/3 schedule we had for 36 years a work week was 6 days. Which sandwiched in between two sets of days off gave you a 12 day vacation.
On the 28 day schedule you must put in and use vacation for every day you want off as there is no guarantee the other regular days off will be approved where you want them. If we decided a 'work week' was too short then it would have been difficult for people to get longer vacations because they will only allow 5 off for days and mids and 4 off for dog watch.
We decided on 7 days for several reasons. One it gives everyone an opportunity to get a real vacation. Two, its a division of 28 so more people have a chance of getting vacation time approved. Three, you only use 56 hours of vacation for seven days off. On the 6/3 you used 51 hours for six days off. Only a five hour difference.
Bottom line: If we didn't make a decision the employer would have made one for us.
Hopefully this works well for this year. If not we can revisit it next year.
Article 12, Sec. 4 of our Agreement says we can designate 1 to 3 consecutive 'work weeks' as Prime Time Vacation. There is no definition of 'work week' in our contract. Under the 6/3 schedule we had for 36 years a work week was 6 days. Which sandwiched in between two sets of days off gave you a 12 day vacation.
On the 28 day schedule you must put in and use vacation for every day you want off as there is no guarantee the other regular days off will be approved where you want them. If we decided a 'work week' was too short then it would have been difficult for people to get longer vacations because they will only allow 5 off for days and mids and 4 off for dog watch.
We decided on 7 days for several reasons. One it gives everyone an opportunity to get a real vacation. Two, its a division of 28 so more people have a chance of getting vacation time approved. Three, you only use 56 hours of vacation for seven days off. On the 6/3 you used 51 hours for six days off. Only a five hour difference.
Bottom line: If we didn't make a decision the employer would have made one for us.
Hopefully this works well for this year. If not we can revisit it next year.
Friday, February 05, 2010
Steward Election Results
The election results are in. Our two new stewards are:
Brian Peterson and Mike Smith
Current shop stewards are:
Wade Laszlo - Chief Steward
Jodie Hannig
Phillip Miles
Mike Nielsen
Ted Westerdahl
Brian Peterson
Mike Smith
Brian Peterson and Mike Smith
Current shop stewards are:
Wade Laszlo - Chief Steward
Jodie Hannig
Phillip Miles
Mike Nielsen
Ted Westerdahl
Brian Peterson
Mike Smith
Wednesday, February 03, 2010
Arbitration
We are at an impasse with Hennepin County and have filed for arbitration.
We are certifying 3 items and the County is certifying 1 item.
Teamster items:
1. Article X sec 4. Comp time changed from Employers choice to Employees choice.
The Sheriff would not budge on the next 2 items relating to Sheriff Stanek's 28 day schedule:
2. Seniority used to bid days off.
3. If schedule is changed after posting a 1.5% premium to be paid for previously scheduled off days worked.
The next item is from Hennepin County:
4. Article 7, sec. 4. Shift bid to become annual rather then bi-annual.
We are certifying 3 items and the County is certifying 1 item.
Teamster items:
1. Article X sec 4. Comp time changed from Employers choice to Employees choice.
The Sheriff would not budge on the next 2 items relating to Sheriff Stanek's 28 day schedule:
2. Seniority used to bid days off.
3. If schedule is changed after posting a 1.5% premium to be paid for previously scheduled off days worked.
The next item is from Hennepin County:
4. Article 7, sec. 4. Shift bid to become annual rather then bi-annual.
Saturday, January 30, 2010
The Latest 1/30/10
Jail Admin has put out a memo raising vacation levels to 5 off for days and mids and 4 off for dogwatch. Definitely a step in the right direction. Since the Vote of No Confidence we have seen the posted schedule remain unchanged and a marked improvement in vacation time use. Solidarity!
Many are reporting getting documented counselling sessions for Pantel Zoom Camera use when they were not the ones setting the cameras. See a steward or email me at steward320@msn.com if this applies to you.
W2's are out. I got a call last night from another steward telling me the income reported on his W2 is about $2,000 more then on his last pay stub! Check yours. APEX? Let's see them explain this 'formula.'
2/3/10 we return to the table for another round of contract mediation.
Continue to watch this blog for updates. Don't hesitate to post here, you can do so anonymously. Feel free to email me at steward320@msn.com
Many are reporting getting documented counselling sessions for Pantel Zoom Camera use when they were not the ones setting the cameras. See a steward or email me at steward320@msn.com if this applies to you.
W2's are out. I got a call last night from another steward telling me the income reported on his W2 is about $2,000 more then on his last pay stub! Check yours. APEX? Let's see them explain this 'formula.'
2/3/10 we return to the table for another round of contract mediation.
Continue to watch this blog for updates. Don't hesitate to post here, you can do so anonymously. Feel free to email me at steward320@msn.com
Friday, January 22, 2010
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Grievance filed over additional money owed detention deputies
On January 18th, 2010, I filed a class action (covering all detention deputies and techs) grievance for money due over hours worked over and above 2080 hours in 2009.
Article 3, Section 3 of our AGREEMENT reads:
Beginning January 2, 2000, employees assigned to a work schedule which requires them to work 2080 or more hours per year (e.g. 6-3 schedule with 8.5 hours of work per day) will not be required to work such makeup hours. Such employees shall be paid for 80 hours per payroll period, exclusive of overtime. Any additional amounts owed to such employees shall be paid at the end of each contract year. Employees on the 6-3 holiday schedule who are credited with working an 8.5 hour workday shall also attend 12 hours mandatory training as part of their normal schedule. In addition, all employees on this schedule shall receive holiday premium compensation for the hours actually worked on a designated holiday, as described in Article 11, Holidays. Employees working this schedule shall not be entitled to the 1.5% salary premium outlined in Article 3, Section 2 above.
By changing the schedule from 6/3 to 28/8 mid year caused most of you to work more hours while only being paid for 2080.
This is yet another "cost savings" of the 28 day schedule of which the Administration was warned. Almost every detention deputy should be owed money.
P.S. This clause is exclusive to the Detention Deputy Agreement. We put it in, in 2000 when we first got holiday pay in our first contract as Teamsters.
Article 3, Section 3 of our AGREEMENT reads:
Beginning January 2, 2000, employees assigned to a work schedule which requires them to work 2080 or more hours per year (e.g. 6-3 schedule with 8.5 hours of work per day) will not be required to work such makeup hours. Such employees shall be paid for 80 hours per payroll period, exclusive of overtime. Any additional amounts owed to such employees shall be paid at the end of each contract year. Employees on the 6-3 holiday schedule who are credited with working an 8.5 hour workday shall also attend 12 hours mandatory training as part of their normal schedule. In addition, all employees on this schedule shall receive holiday premium compensation for the hours actually worked on a designated holiday, as described in Article 11, Holidays. Employees working this schedule shall not be entitled to the 1.5% salary premium outlined in Article 3, Section 2 above.
By changing the schedule from 6/3 to 28/8 mid year caused most of you to work more hours while only being paid for 2080.
This is yet another "cost savings" of the 28 day schedule of which the Administration was warned. Almost every detention deputy should be owed money.
P.S. This clause is exclusive to the Detention Deputy Agreement. We put it in, in 2000 when we first got holiday pay in our first contract as Teamsters.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Media Bias
On December 15th 2009 a press release was issued announcing a VOTE OF NO CONFIDENCE IN SHERIFF STANEK. Among others, two of the local paper's reporters interviewed me, the Minneapolis Star Tribune and the St. Paul Pioneer Press. A total of 5 interviews between them.
Interestingly, the St. Paul Pioneer Press after much promise eventually said, "We don't cover stories on the other side of the river." The Star Tribune eventually told me, "I don't think our editor is interested in running it." OK, but wait.
One must ask why the Star Tribune has story after pro-Sheriff Stanek story, and story after negative story about Ramsey County Sheriff Fletcher "on the other side of the river." Could it be that Sheriff Stanek is a "source" of theirs? They accept story after story from him, many of which are good, but in return will not cover any negative stories about him even though he is a major politician.
No Confidence Votes are generally news. When the small police department in Oakdale voted NO CONFIDENCE in their chief the Star Tribune ran the story, Oakdale's police chief: Bully or 'by the book'?
When the Hennepin County Sheriff's Deputies Association took a vote of no confidence against candidate Stanek's rival Juan Lopez, it made the news. That's right, a politically motivated vote of no confidence against a candidate made the news!
All was relatively quiet between the two, even up to the primary, where Stanek captured 43 percent of the vote to Lopez's 24 percent. But afterward, the attacks began in the form of a press release from a group called the Hennepin County Sheriff's Deputies Association. The missive, which lists HCSDA president Pat Denman as a contact, notes that the association issued a "no confidence" vote in candidate Lopez. City Pages
In light of that one would think a VOTE OF NO CONFIDENCE by Teamsters Union members against the Sheriff of the largest County in Minnesota would be news, but alas, the media is biased. Whether it gets newspaper coverage or not doesn't change the facts of the VOTE OF NO CONFIDENCE IN SHERIFF STANEK. It also can't stop the Internet from spreading the word in blogs and on YouTube videos.
Interestingly, the St. Paul Pioneer Press after much promise eventually said, "We don't cover stories on the other side of the river." The Star Tribune eventually told me, "I don't think our editor is interested in running it." OK, but wait.
One must ask why the Star Tribune has story after pro-Sheriff Stanek story, and story after negative story about Ramsey County Sheriff Fletcher "on the other side of the river." Could it be that Sheriff Stanek is a "source" of theirs? They accept story after story from him, many of which are good, but in return will not cover any negative stories about him even though he is a major politician.
No Confidence Votes are generally news. When the small police department in Oakdale voted NO CONFIDENCE in their chief the Star Tribune ran the story, Oakdale's police chief: Bully or 'by the book'?
When the Hennepin County Sheriff's Deputies Association took a vote of no confidence against candidate Stanek's rival Juan Lopez, it made the news. That's right, a politically motivated vote of no confidence against a candidate made the news!
All was relatively quiet between the two, even up to the primary, where Stanek captured 43 percent of the vote to Lopez's 24 percent. But afterward, the attacks began in the form of a press release from a group called the Hennepin County Sheriff's Deputies Association. The missive, which lists HCSDA president Pat Denman as a contact, notes that the association issued a "no confidence" vote in candidate Lopez. City Pages
In light of that one would think a VOTE OF NO CONFIDENCE by Teamsters Union members against the Sheriff of the largest County in Minnesota would be news, but alas, the media is biased. Whether it gets newspaper coverage or not doesn't change the facts of the VOTE OF NO CONFIDENCE IN SHERIFF STANEK. It also can't stop the Internet from spreading the word in blogs and on YouTube videos.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Thursday, January 07, 2010
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
Steward Nominations
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.
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