Unstoppable Daniel Boone Library Union Advances in Contract Talks
TL/DR –
The Daniel Boone Regional Library and its employee union are in contract negotiations regarding wages, healthcare coverage, and a subcontractor clause. The union has presented four tentative agreements as a financial and benefits package, however the administration is seeking to separate these items and cap raises at 25% for financial responsibility. Among the issues discussed are healthcare coverage for transgender employees, with the administration stating they do not want to limit themselves to any type of health care condition in their health insurance proposal, and the union arguing for a nondiscrimination through a transgender health care policy.
Crucial Contract Negotiations Continue Between Daniel Boone Regional Library and Employee Union
Key issues surrounding wages, healthcare, and subcontracting persist as the employee union and the administration of Daniel Boone Regional Library resume contract discussions. The high-stakes negotiations saw both parties engaging in separate brainstorming sessions before a short, heated exchange between library executive director Margaret Conroy and union chief negotiator Jane Billinger of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees.
Contention Over Health Benefits and Financial Agreements
The union’s proposal of four tentative agreements as a combined financial and benefits package met with resistance from the library administration, which preferred to debate these points separately. The discussion led to a focus on healthcare coverage for transgender employees. Conroy asserted that the library’s healthcare proposal should not favor any specific health conditions.
Wage Increase Concerns
On the topic of wages, about 30 staff members would see a pay increase of over 25%, with some even witnessing a 60% raise, according to Conroy’s analysis of salary charts and service years. This has led the administration to aim for a 25% cap on raises to maintain financial responsibility. The proposed wage increase based on years of experience has garnered support from the union, as they argue that even shelvers perform valuable customer service duties.
Contract Negotiations Continue Amidst Uncertainty
While the administration’s counteroffer indicated a preference for privatization and outsourcing, the union remains determined to protect their staff jobs. Further negotiations are set to resume with hopes of reaching a mutually satisfactory agreement. For more information, read Library union, administration discuss wages, health costs as they work toward a contract and Use of subcontractors at Daniel Boone Regional Library is a sticking point. Here’s why.
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