Dear Erik,
First, (regarding the quote in the New Albany Tribune) I did not say that the union can only vote on "any" item once a year.
'The union can only vote on a merit system once a year" is what I said.
If it does not pass, then we have to wait until next year to vote on it again, and even then, if it passes, it wouldn't go into effect until the beginning of the next calendar year.
http://www.in.gov/legislative/ic/code/title36/ar8/
I would recommend that anyone who seeks more information on the state law regarding the process of structuring a merit system reference the Indiana Code from this link.
The concept of a merit system is nothing new to the members of Local 410.
The Union has been doing extensive research on the process, the structuring and the implementation of a State of Indiana approved merit system for the fire department since October of 2006.
The reason that I made the comment about being well informed is because I believe this cannot be rushed.
The information gathered needs to be current, correct and understandable to everyone.
Since we all have an opportunity to structure this system "together" to make it best fit our department, we need to exhale, relax, think about (and discuss) what we are doing and do it correctly the first time.
Any system that is devised must be fair and all inclusive to also avoid potential litigation, petty complaints and a need for restructuring down the road.
There are proven systems being used all over the State that are being reviewed which we can customize for our needs.
A merit system includes Indiana Code language for hiring, firing, promotion and disciplinary action, all done by a merit board comprised of persons chosen according to the IC which outlines the process.
It is a complex process which is believed to improve the quality of personnel hired and promoted. That is exactly what the fire fighter's union wants to ensure.
Quality, without a compromise of the standards.
It is a huge step forward in improving many processes within the fire department. It is great that all of the interested parties agree, so far, that a merit system would relieve a great deal of questioning regarding our current systems.
Tony Wolfe
Retired New Albany
Fire Fighter
Freedom of Speech would like to ask Mayor Garner and Fire Chief Ron Toran why they are stuck in a hell bent "no compromise state of mind" with our New Albany fire fighters?
Also, Mayor Garner why did you have the Board of Public Works and Safety enact a firefighter-hiring procedure, by allowing The Board of Works an ordinance :
Which stipulates that applications will be accepted each August; and applicants must pass an agility test, a test of job skills and a criminal-background check to reach an interview with Fire Chief Ron Toran to become eligible to be hired at the discretion of the Board of Works.
Source: New Albany Tribune
April 4, 2007
We "smell politics" all over this entire decision you've made Jimmy!
Now tell us taxpayer's once again Mayor Garner and Chief Toran, who is making a "mockery" of our democratic process?
Have you forgotten something?
"Jimmy G. You Still Work For Me!"
The incompetent with
nothing to do can
still make a mess of it.
~Laurence J. Peter
