Bemidji Lunch Event
On May 22nd, Labor Rep Tony Kelly facilitated an MGEC Lunch at MnDOT’s facility in Bemidji. Members were able to enjoy lunch and receive a face-to-face update of what is happening with their union. More importantly, members were able to ask questions and get answers.
Even though this isn’t a bargaining year, the subject of bargaining was on members’ minds. Understanding the bargaining process and tactics to advocate for priorities was the theme of the conversation. Direct experiences were shared by senior members who have been at bargaining table many times, which was very valuable for those who haven’t had bargaining experience. In other words, first-hand experiences from folks like Todd were shared directly with folks who’ve never been to the negotiation table, and that interaction has an impact when in-person.
Specific examples of bargaining topics included how wage studies are used in bargaining and arbitration, and how job progression can be made fairer and more transparent, such as the common examples we see from Transportation Specialist to Engineering Specialist or Graduate Engineer to Senior Engineer. Those who have been through the process were able to describe what can motivate the state to realize they need to make a change, and while it can be frustrating, perseverance and solidarity pay off. Collective bargaining agreements are, after all, almost always voluntarily settled; both parties must find ways to say “yes”, and experience matters when developing bargaining strategies.
Big thanks to Todd Vonasek for not only helping to organize this MGEC Lunch but also providing first-hand experiences of bargaining with MMB!
Department of Health Lunch Event
Immediately following the Bemidji lunch event, MGEC staff Donna Blackwell and Tony Kelly brought lunch to the Department of Health in St Paul. Like Bemidji, an in-person update was delivered of current MGEC events. We also heard from MDH members about their concerns. And like the conversation in Bemidji, members wanted to learn more about how contract bargaining works and how we can prepare for the next round. Another issue that came up over lunch was the state’s handling of the e-verify program and how the consequences have affected some of our members as the state will not be able to sponsor their visas. Consequently, when an employee’s temporary visa expires, they can no longer work for the state. While MGEC’s jurisdiction in areas outside of the four corners of the contract is quite limited, we nonetheless try to facilitate conversations, so the employer hears the experiences of their employees.
And as always, thanks to MGEC Representative, past Past President, and current Vice President Corey Mathison for helping us arrange the event.