HSS Unit Traverse City Membership Meeting

The Union leadership held a general membership meeting on June 8th in Traverse City. The meeting was attended by members of the BWT (Agricultural Specialists) and DHS (Disability Determination Assistants).

Topics of discussion included the Member Strength program, the State Employees retirement bill. Lobby Day and the American Dream Fund.

President Patrick addressed the previous issue of having meetings in other locales than Traverse City. Members were advised that this would be okay providing a secure location could be found.

Members were concerned about any future temporary layoff days. The membership was advised that the Union has not been notified of any temporary layoff days for this fiscal year. President Patrick stated that per our agreement with the Office of the State Employer, only four days instead of ten could be applied to the membership.

Workplace bullying was also discussed and flyers were passed out regarding this issue. Anyone interested in additional information can go to www.workplacebullying.org.

There was a discussion regarding Republican from Troy, Senator John Pappageorge's proposal to cut wages 4% across the board for State employees.

Members within BWT are having issues with getting AL approved due to stipulations relating to H2As, outreach, etc.

The next membership meeting is scheduled for October 7, 2010 in Traverse City.