Northampton County Council refuses to budge on a collective bargaining agreement with the court-appointed professional unit. Last night, by a 5-4 vote, they again refused to approve the agreement, even though it is the product of an arbitration. Council members John Cusick, Tom Dietrich, Bruce Gilbert, Barb Thierry and Ron Angle all voted against a three-year contract that would give probation officers and Domestic Relations accountants pay increases, but would also require a higher employee contribution to medical care. Wage hikes of 5% this year, followed by 2.5% raises in 2011 and 2012, trouble Council members, especially since there are also salary bumps of $1,000 and $500 over the next two years.
Asked for the second or third time for a legal opinion, Council Solicitor Phil Lauer gave a confusing and long-winded explanation about legislative enactments and severability.
Peg Ferraro was more than willing to approve the contract because "we've always done it." She also warned that a refusal could end up costing the County more, especially if an unfair labor practice is filed.
Angle, unmoved by whatever it was that Lauer said, had this simple answer. "I don't give a damn what the arbitrator says. I don't give a damn what the courts say. I care what the people in Region 4 say. I'm voting No."
Council then considered approving the contract for 2010 and 2011, but not 2012. That resolution was tabled when it became clear that more information is needed.
Although it's clear that Council is unhappy with the terms of an arbitrated award, it is equally clear they are on thin legal ice.
