Honesty Essential During Interviews

Tuesday, December 18, 2007

Due to a recent increase in the number of administrative investigations occurring in various bargaining units, UPEC staff would like to remind members that one of the fastest ways to receive a termination notice is to be untruthful during an employer enquiry.

It doesn’t matter whether the interview with your employer is an official “Internal Affairs” investigation at a law enforcement agency or simply a meeting with your supervisor where you are being asked questions. You must tell the truth or face termination of your employment.

No matter how uncomfortable the subject matter, be truthful and cooperative. Think of the interview as a performance opportunity to demonstrate that you are a great employee worth keeping. The only way to refuse to participate in a legitimate work interview is to resign prior to answering questions. This drastic of an approach is rare but can be appropriate under certain circumstances.  If the matter you are being questioned about could be criminal in nature, remember that the information you provide may also be used to prosecute you!

UPEC staff recommends that you always contact one of us if you are going to be interviewed. Ask and receive Union representation prior to proceeding with an interview. Even if you do not intend to have a representative sit in during your interview, make a telephone call and run the situation past one of UPEC’s professional representatives. Your means of support is important to you and your family. It is your biggest investment and should be treated carefully and with respect. 

Take No Chances!

Call the Union for advice and representation.

Glenn DSA Settles New Contract

Glenn County DSA approves a new 21 month contract that grants significant pay and benefit increases.

Glenn County DSA members voted to ratify the new MOU that was recommended by DSA President Shawn Williams and the DSA bargaining team assisted by UPEC Negotiator Steve Allen.

In summary, the new contract provides for a 10% pay increase (5% 1-1-08, 3% 1-1-09 , 2% 7-1-09), implementation of longevity pay (5% for 12 years County service and 1% more at 20 years County service beginning 7-1-08), a compromise formula on medical insurance (County to pick up 90% of employee only Blue Shield HMO and add the same dollar increase to dependent premium pick up which results in dependent premium pick up in the 80% range), a new “cash in lieu” program where employees opting out of medical insurance receive a cash increase, and an increase in shift differential of $.75 per hour.

The settlement keeps the DSA on track toward its goal to catch up to comparable agencies.  “It does not get us there yet but it is a step in the right direction,” according to Allen.  Allen also stated that the County voiced its concern about media reports describing the state budget deficit but that despite that concern the County’s negotiating committee made a sincere effort to meet the DSA’s demands.  “This went as smooth as I have seen bargaining go in Glenn County,” stated Allen.  “We look forward to continuing to build a positive labor relations relationship with the Board of Supervisors and the CAO’s Office.”

The new labor contract runs from January 1, 2008 through September 30, 2009.

UPEC Board to Visit Willows

Monday, December 17, 2007

Headquarters - The UPEC Executive Board will take a road trip to Willows to meet with members on Saturday, February 16, 2008 at 10:00 am.  Board member Larry Olsen will be making the arrangements for the meeting location. Business Manager Chris Darker said the Board wants to meet with members where they live and work to hear their issues and provide information. The Board last travelled to Weaverville in October and Alturas last March.

UPEC Board Approves Merger

Sunday, December 09, 2007

Headquarters - The UPEC Executive Board met yesterday in Redding for their monthly Board meeting and approved a merger of LIUNA Local 270 public and healthcare employees into Local 792. The approval paves the way to transfer the membership of approximately 650 members onto the rolls of Local 792.  Business Manager Chris Darker was asked last month by LIUNA Vice President Rocco Davis to consider a proposal to add 19 additional bargaining units into Local 792. Darker met with LIUNA Local 270 Business Manager Carlos Lujan and their Executive Board last week to discuss the change and agreed to propose this to the Executive Board with an implementation date of January 1, 2008.. “I believe this is a good move for our local and for the members of local 270”, stated Darker.
This will be the second merger this year of employees into Local 792. In July, the Executive Board approved moving 500 federal sector members from LIUNA Local 36 in San Francisco into 792. Members from Local 270 are in the south bay area to Pacific Grove. Darker said the Local will need to hire an additional Labor Representative who will be based in the bay area.