Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Negotiation Highlights - November 19, 2012

GEA-GSD Negotiaions 
November  19, 2012

The bargaining session began at 3:17 PM. Genaro Alarcon facilitated the meeting while Ken Tang was the recorder.

After Check-in, an agenda was begun.

The final agenda consisted of three items.

  1. Budget information from the District
  2. 2013-2014 Calendar
  3. Where are we/next steps
The District distributed information regarding the financial state of the District. A chart with the most recent projections was distributed. Several graphs were distributed as well. There was an explanation of cash flow issues caused by payment deferrals from the state. There was also discussion regarding loans which the District has to take out every nine months or so because of the state payment deferrals.

There was also information regarding the effects a hard cap on fringe benefits to all employees would have on the bottom line.

The Association asked several questions regarding the assumptions used to create the documents.

The discussion turned to the 2013-2014 calendar. The District distributed two calendars which are closely aligned with Alhambra's calendar. It was stated that these were not proposals at this time, but  rather a starting point for discussion.

The first calendar had an orientation date of August 14, 2013, and an ending date of May 28, 2014.
The second calendar had an orientation date of August 19, 2013 and an ending date of May 30-, 2012.

The District stated that since our calendar does not align with Alhambra this year, we will have to have summer school classes for our special education eighth graders. Historically these classes are held at the high schools, but since their summer school classes begin before we are out of school, Garvey will have to conduct their own classes. This is a cost to the District.

The Association clarified that with both calendars we would be going back to a 10 month pay schedule and asked to find out when summer school 2014 would begin in Alhambra so we can take that information into consideration.

The Association took a caucus.

After the caucus the discussion turned to next steps.

The District stated it was very important to begin discussion regarding fringe benefits in December.

The Association stated that we need to survey and discuss fringe with our members in order to have a meaningful discussion with the District.

In the end it was decided that fringe benefits would be taken up in January.

The next bargaining session is scheduled for December 3rd at 3 PM