Good afternoon members of Local 141,

On Thursday, April 17, we met as an executive board to discuss some of the issues that have been circulating on the floor.  I am writing this note to address the questions that have been brought to the board members and were given consideration. 

Most of the issues can easily be solved by reading our SOG’s, for example the SOG that was just released on uniforms has not changed. We also suggest everyone continue to follow the carbon monoxide response SOG as its written.  Any side notes or additions are not part of the SOG and interpretation is subjective.  If a change is to occur to an SOG it must first be presented to the Wage committee for approval.  Please read the SOG and follow it as it is written and don’t make a big deal about it when talking to the Batts.

The subject of mandatory ride time has also been brought forward due to the issue of a work order by the EMS Division Chief.  At this month’s union meeting a motion was carried to file a grievance on the work order if a resolution could not be found.  Today a motion was carried to follow through on the grievance; I think it’s important to understand a work order is not in place to circumvent the collective bargaining agreement.  If one of the chief’s would like to see a change they must bring it to the table to bargain not just impose their will by an alternate means.

In every group communication can often be the difference between success and failure.  Recently the board has noticed a lack of communication within and from administration.  Once again multiple messages come out on different shifts and messages being sent from station 1 are inconsistent to what is written. We are just as frustrated as some of you but I can promise we are working on building better communications with the chief for the future.

Fraternally,

Chad Bronkhorst 

President

IAFF Local 141