By a margin of 81 percent to 19 percent, the Guild overwhelmingly rejected the company’s proposal. Turnout was excellent – approximately 80 percent of our membership submitted votes. Thanks for your interest!
This result obviously is a clear indication of the unit’s dissatisfaction with what the company wanted from us, and how they sought to get it. But to interpret this vote as a sign we are unwilling to pitch in to help in these challenging times would be a mistake. We have sacrificed, and will continue to do so, so long as it’s for the right reasons. Many of you who voted no to this proposal appended personal messages outlining your willingness to do your part, just as you have in the past. But many of you were skeptical, confused or angered by the company’s current demands, noting that they coincided with us losing an additional five more people from our ranks. No other department at the PD, so far as I am aware, suffered such a steep loss in the past six weeks. We were dealt a blow – but we were not knocked out.
It’s unclear as of this writing where the road leads next. I will alert you to any updates as they become available.
It’s been a tough week for all concerned. What say we gather at the Sweet Spot after work for a pint or two.
Way to stand up to tyranny, Guild members. Perhaps now the company will realize the Guild will not just roll over and take their demands up the wazzoo.
Be prepared for pressure, but if we stand together, we’re stronger.
The Guild will keep you updated of any further movement in “negotiations.” And please feel free to contact me, Derek or Bleys with your questions, concerns and ideas.
We’re all in this together!
Apparently, this was not the first time that the Santa Rosa Guild unit has rejected a company proposal. Resident memory (aka my next door neighbor) Bob Klose says that the first time he knows of was in the mid-1970s when he was Guild chair and the unit rejected a proposed contract upon which the Guild committee recommended a no vote.
Good for you PD guild members! It takes courage to make such a stand, but hopefully guild members across the country will take note of your action and realize that we don’t have to “take it or leave it.”
In a matter of weeks, the Sacramento Bee guild will begin bargaining for a new 3-yr. contract. Your vote should provide some inspiration.