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Franklin Park ffs go to arbitration
Excerpts from the Chicago Tribune:
Franklin Park's firefighters' union is taking their dispute with the village to arbitration, more than a year past the expiration of their last contract. According to Douglas Halverson, the president of the International Association of Firefighters Franklin Park Local 1526, this marks the first time in fifty years that they've resorted to such measures. "We've always been able to negotiate and come to agreements," Halverson stated during the public comment portion of the village board meeting on Monday. The arbitration process was initially set for July 15th.
However, this isn't just about the contract. Halverson highlighted several grievances they plan to address in separate arbitration sessions. These include no raises for two consecutive years, the closure of a firehouse, reduced wages for union members staffing an ambulance, and insufficient hiring to reach full staffing levels within the department.
He questioned whether the board had considered why there were so many grievances and if they'd explored ways to prevent arbitration. "This union has tried everything short of this," he emphasized, referencing prior failed negotiation attempts.
The latest contract between the village and the union ran from May 1, 2012, to April 30, 2014. Negotiations started well before its expiration and carried on throughout this year. Halverson explained that the union accepted concessions, such as lower wages for ambulance duty and doing more with fewer resources, based on the village's claim of being in financial deficit five years ago. They believed the situation would improve post-contract, but this hasn't happened.
"Never before have we staffed a ladder truck with only two firefighters; this is dangerous," Halverson added.
Franklin Park authorities maintain they've provided a fair offer, as stated in an email from the village's legal counsel. "The village has negotiated in good faith and has addressed many concerns raised by union leaders. We believe our proposed compensation package is both fair and equitable."
Arbitration differs from litigation as it occurs outside of court. Both sides select an unbiased third party, known as an arbitrator, who oversees a hearing where evidence and testimonies are presented. According to the current union contract, both parties will share the arbitrator's fee. Within thirty days of the hearings, the arbitrator will deliver a binding decision.
I personally think this ongoing stalemate is unfortunate. As a resident, I hope they find a way to settle this amicably. It's clear both sides feel strongly about their positions, but hopefully, they can reach a compromise soon.