Winkowski, Jackie posted on January 15, 2010 15:23
Three of four MAPS collective bargaining contracts expired on June 30, 2009. Those included MABA, the building administrators’ union which represents nine principals and assistant principals; MESPA I which represents 51 full- and part-time custodians, food service employees, and transportation personnel; and MESPA II, the labor organization representing 108 full and part-time secretarial, educational program aide and clerical personnel. MABA is associated with United Auto Workers, and both MESPA groups are MEA-affiliated. MAPS fourth labor organization is also MEA-affiliated: the MAEA represents the district’s teachers and other instructional personnel. That group’s contract expires June 30, 2010.
As of January 15, 2010, the status of each bargaining effort is as follows:
· MABA – Following a series of negotiation sessions, our building administrator group agreed to a new one-year contract with one-year salary freeze. Thus, principals have joined Central Office and other non-unionized employees’ efforts to reduce 2009-2010 labor costs. The MAPS-MABA contract was ratified by the Board on 12/7/09.
· MESPA I – MAPS negotiators have negotiated with this labor group on six occasions throughout the summer and fall. Dates of those sessions include: 7/21, 8/12, 8/17, 8/31, and 11/4/09. On 11/4, Marquette Area Public Schools notified the Union of intent to utilize a State-provided mediator for upcoming collective bargaining sessions. A mediated bargaining meeting commenced on 12/17/09. The next mediated session is scheduled for 1/20/10.
· MESPA II – The MAPS Team and MESPA II have met five times in efforts to reach agreement on a new contract. The next session is scheduled for 2/11/10.
Employee costs represent 84.34% of MAPS General Fund expenditures. Most employee contracts are bargained through representation by labor organizations. Michigan’s funding crisis and local budget shortfalls combine to underscore the importance of effective collective bargaining. On December 15, the District notified MAEA representatives of the expectation that bargaining commence to reach agreement on a 2010-2011 MAPS-MAEA contract. Please contact the Office of the Superintendent for more details regarding 2009-2010 collective bargaining efforts.