COMMITTEE ON LABOR
MINUTES
MARCH 13, 2000
GUESTS: KEN LYNCH (1ST V.P. PRES., SOA), GARY MCGRATH (PRES., WCDPS PBA), INV. MICHAEL OCCHIONE (V.P. PRES., WCDAI PBA)
OTHERS: ETTERE, DODDS (BOL); INGRID BENT (CE OFFICE); JO BRILL (LWV)
The meeting was called to order at 11:40 a.m.
MINUTES:
Chair Mosiello stated that he had contacted the Administration and asked that they provide the WCCFT with 500 copies of their contract as requested by Dr. Beck last week. Dr. Beck informed Chair Mosiello that she had already printed the copies needed but appreciated the inquiry and would gladly accept a check for reimbursement.
Chair Mosiello introduced the guests. Because of an internal emergency, Joseph Spano could not attend.
Mr. McGrath is the President of the Westchester County Department of Public Safety (WCDPS) PBA. This organization has 246 members. It is the second largest police union in Westchester. The WCDPS PBA is an independent union that reports directly to the County Government. Mr. McGrath feels this committee is important especially for independent organizations that may sometimes get “short changed” on issues. His organization has some concerns such as salaries and manpower. Their contract expires on December 31, 2000 and will begin negotiations in September.
Legislator Oros stated that when he was Chairman he would meet with Mr. McGrath, Joseph Spano and Bob Buckley on a quarterly basis to keep an
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open dialogue on current issues. He feels this Committee should do the same.
Legislator Ryan feels Mr. McGrath has done a great job. He has always kept the BOL “up to speed” on matters concerning the WCDPS.
Mr. Lynch is the first Vice President of the Department of Corrections Superior Officers Association (SOA). Bob Buckley is on vacation. The SOA has 113 members who administer the County Jail (under the Commissioner) and supervise 750-800 officers. It is an independent organization. The SOA’s contract has been expired for 5 years.
Legislator Wishnie asked Mr. Lynch if members of his organization are affected by the sex discrimination situation involving the displacement of male officers in the facility’s female prisoner cell-blocks. Mr. Lynch stated that it does not affect his union but may affect the housing officers they supervise.
Chair Mosiello stated that Joseph Spano had planned on discussing this issue at this meeting. Because he could not attend, this Committee will schedule another meeting with Mr. Spano to discuss this matter.
Mr. Occhione is the Vice President of the Westchester County District Attorney Investigator’s (WCDAI) PBA. It has approximately 30 members, which handle investigative work the District Attorney’s Office. Mr. Occhione feels this Committee will open the door to communication. Their contract has expired and is currently in negotiations.
Legislator Oros made a motion to adopt the Blueprint for the Committee on Labor and was seconded by Legislator Wishnie. The motion was carried by a vote of 4-0.
Legislator Wishnie made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 12:01 p.m. and was seconded by Legislator Ryan.