FMEF Bargaining Update - October 22, 2021

Jamison Phephean, Public Works, and family members spoke out against the City’s proposed staff cuts. Left to right: Mardell Davidson (Jamison’s Grandmother), Richard Phephean, Jamison, Jennifer, Audry, Ava, and Logan Phephean.

Dear FMEF member,

Your FMEF Bargaining Team met with City representatives Thursday, Oct. 21, and received the City’s initial proposal that includes a base building wage increase and a two-year contract term.

City representatives rejected a “no layoff” clause but your FMEF Bargaining Team is committed to establishing stability for you and your families after a decade of uncertainty.

The City’s proposal comes after a long delay while the City worked through its budget process which, as many of you know, remains incomplete. 

Make no mistake, the City would not be offering a wage increase had it not been for the solidarity shown by FMEF at the bargaining table, in the local press, and the large turnout at recent City Council meetings. Standing together attracts support as shown by community members willing to speak out on your behalf.

Again, this is the City’s first proposal so there is much work ahead. As negotiations continue, it is vital that you and your fellow FMEF members stand together to maintain the momentum you and your coworkers have established.

Please contact me at vrodarte@ocea.org or your FMEF Board members should you have any questions. We will report on new developments as they occur.

See you at the next City Council meeting, Tuesday, Nov. 2 at 6:30 p.m. Feel free to join us outside City Hall for dinner starting at 5:30 p.m.

In Solidarity,

Veronica Rodarte
Sr. Labor Relations Representative

Publication Date: October 22, 2021