> Negotiations Update #28
> October 14, 2003
>
> Dear Sisters and Brothers:
>
> Today your Union Negotiating Committee met with the Company to resume
negotiations.  We also had the federal mediator and our IBEW International
Representative Jim Dahlberg present to assist.  We began preparation at
approximately 7:30 a.m. and arrived at the General Office to continue
negotiations sometime around 9:00 a.m.
>
> We reached a point during our conversations where our committee felt we
were making progress towards reaching a tentative agreement.  We proposed to
the Company a package again making strides toward obtaining an agreement.
The Company in return made a move that we believe was bargaining in bad
faith.  The last offer that was presented by the Company appeared to be
digressive rather than bargaining toward a voluntary agreement.
>
> The Union Committee has throughout the process, clearly demonstrated and
explained in detail to the Company the basis for our proposals and why we
feel they are fair and reasonable.  We spent numerous hours of research and
justified our proposals using data compiled of other Investor Owned
Utilities.  We have proven to the Company that their Medical proposal in
their last and best package contained major cost shifting that left the
Company profiting the first year by the elimination of our HMO's.  The
Company continues to push back and position themselves to profit and shift
the costs to the members.  Why then does this Company preach "ethics and
fairness"?
>
> Given the conduct of the Company, we decided we needed to further consult
with our International to determine what direction and actions we will be
taking.  It was very disappointing for our Committee to work this long and
hard to be faced with these tactics.  We will be evaluating our position and
will informing you of what your role will be as we move forward.  This
Friday, October 17, 2003 we will be holding a Chief Steward meeting and
discussing upcoming negotiation strategies.  Please contact your Local Chief
Steward and watch for future e-mails as to how you can get involved.
>
> We welcome your continued involvement by submitting your comments on our
website at www.ibew965.com
>
> Please remember to take the time to work safe.  If you have any questions,
do not hesitate to contact one of us.
>
> In Solidarity,
>
> Your Negotiating Committee
>
> Shawn Reents
> Mike Pyne
> Gary McGrath
> Bob Jung
> Holly Kaiser