Sisters and Brothers,

We started negotiations with the city on May 9, 2014 and continue to meet and discuss proposals in accordance with state law. In the negotiation process each party has the duty to bargain collectively which requires the parties to meet at reasonable times, confer in good faith regarding compensation, hours of work, and other conditions of employment or the negotiation of an agreement or a question arising under an agreement. The law also states that neither party is required agree to a proposal or to make a concession.

The law also sets a time limit of 60 days on the negotiations. If there is no agreement by the 60th day of negotiations, the parties can agree to extend negotiations in 15 day increments. The 60th day is July 8, 2014.

There have been proposals exchanged and some tentative agreements have been agreed to on language clean-up. At this point, we are far apart on their insurance proposal and the change in hours of work that Chief Pena has proposed. These are just two examples.

Nothing in the contract changes until the membership votes to change the agreement. It must then be approved by City Council and signed into effect. Don't rely on rumors. Be informed, get informed.

Fraternally,

Joe Tellez