Jail goes union Save Email Print
Contract ratified Thursday
Posted: 5:35 PM Oct 18, 2007
 Last Updated: 5:35 PM Oct 18, 2007
 Reporter: Mark Petesron
Email Address: mpeterson@wndu.com
4 comments
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The St. Joseph County jail is well on its way to becoming a union shop.

In voting that wrapped up Thursday afternoon, jail guards approved their first ever union contract.

Approximately 100-special deputies work at the jail.

Earlier they voted in favor of Teamsters Union representation.

The three year agreement spells out a variety of working conditions, from how grievances are handled, to how shift assignments are determined.

The agreement does not deal with wages.

If approved by the St. Joseph County Council and Commissioners, the agreement will take effect January 1st of 2008.
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Posted by: Dustin Location: UnionGuide.org on Nov 2, 2007 at 10:59 PM
Dennis, You're misinformed; By forming a Union, the Employer must bargain in regards to all issues of employment (including compensation). These officeers' initial contract does not address wages althought the issue was likely discussed at the bargaining table. However, it is very important for workers to get a decent first contract from which to build on udring subsequent contract negotiations and it appears as though this is the case in thie win for the officers in this circumstance. Additionally, research the facts prior to making comments based on disprovable information - Union Members, on average, earn about 30% higher compensation than their Non-Union counterparts performing the same work (subtract the necessary Union Dues and these workers are far better off financially than if they were Non-Union). Check this FACT with the Department of Labor (www.DOL.gov). Fraternally, Dustin - UnionGuide.org
Posted by: fred on Oct 29, 2007 at 06:57 PM
i was a special deputy they need a union they are under paid have no binding grievace procedure rules applyd unfairly a contract will help them get what they need
Posted by: Dave on Oct 29, 2007 at 04:57 PM
I think this is one of the best things that could happen. The "special deputies" will now have a grievance proceedure, seniority rights, bid rights, and most importantly the right to have a true voice on the job regarding their working conditions. History has proven that public sector employees fair better in wage negotiations when represented by a respected Union. This contract will be open for wage negotiations in 2008 and 2009 during which we shall continue to have the representation we deserve.
Posted by: Dennis on Oct 19, 2007 at 10:05 AM
How can a union be in the jail their is set rate of pay, and they can not strike thse officer are hurting them self, a union is not the way to go some one sold them a bill of goods and the money they pay for union dues they could use for their families.
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