10-24-16 Personnel and Finance - Laserfiche WebLink

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could reward people who received certain certifications with extra pay. That was a way to keep people here and encourage people to go and gain even more skills. Jim Szucs, 2405 East Edison South Bend, stated he is the business agent for the work groups. By virtue of the vote overwhelming in favor of the agreement, that demonstrates the workers are pleased the agreement will be attractive new hires. Councilmember Davis asked what does he think was the overriding benefit that pushed this deal over the edge. Mr. Szucs responded there are things such as double time on holidays and Sundays that are attractive as well as a work readiness program which provides a clothing allowance for the employees. Those things along with the wage, PERF, and longevity really add up. The incidental increases really are what sets this negotiation apart. There is more to a negotiation than economics. The Administration did a great job listening as well as the union did a great job listening to the Administration. All sides did what had to be done to make an open and favorable agreement. By listening to each other and being respectful, we accomplished a good agreement and the vote exemplifies that. Councilmember Davis stated he agrees that it is more than just economics, it is the tone as well. Council Attorney Cekanski - Farrand stated the dialogue was very supportive this time which added to the tone of the agreement. Councilmember Davis stated he agrees and that is why it is impressive that this is a four (4) year agreement. Committee Chair White stated she really believes those incidental increases are really impressive and add to the goodwill of the agreement. Mr. Szues stated he agrees and that you cannot just look at the base line salary increase. In some instances people will receive really over a five percent (5 %) increase when the whole package is considered. Councilmember Jo M. Broden stated the ability to be creative with benefits really was important for all sides to listen to each other and come up with some creative options to develop an overall package that everyone can be happy with. No one from the public spoke either in favor of or in opposition to the bill. Councilmember Gavin Ferlic made a motion to send Substitute Bill 61 -16 to the full Council with a favorable recommendation. Councilmember John Voorde seconded the motion which carried by a voice vote of four (4) ayes.