After a long drawn out negotiation that included mediation and fact-finding, UPSEU Bergen Prosecutors Computer Division unit members have a deal. A new agreement will provide annual wage increases and other improvements.
UPSEU members approved the fact-finding recommendation several months ago but a disagreement arose between the Prosecutor's office who had approved the agreement and the County Executive who wouldn't. After UPSEU's continued insistence that both the Prosecutor, the County Executive, and the Board of Shosen Freeholders approve the agreement, it was ratified by the Freeholders at their February meeting.
The agreement was hampered due to the vast differences in positions and salaries within the unit. The parties in the unit are extremely skilled computer professionals and the fact-finder had accounted for the variation in salaries by providing greater increases to lower paid employees. The Prosecutors had wanted a freeze for higher salaried employees, which was rejected by the fact-finder. The Prosecutors resolved their differences and the County Executive ultimately agreed that the total percentage was within the framework that the County sought in its negotiations throughout the county. Three other agreements with law enforcement units were held up as well.
UPSEU is pleased that the County Executive and the Freeholders supported UPSEU's agreement. Special thanks to Brian McNulty, Andy Malakas, Bobby La Riviere and John Krivy for their work throughout the long and frustrating process.
|