The county will be retaining an independent firm to investigate allegations made by Sheriff Christina Corpus, after she said the county’s initial response did not appropriately address concerns she raised about County Executive Mike Callagy.
The Deputy Sheriff’s Association and the Organization of the Sheriff’s Sergeants “strongly disagree” with Corpus who “inexplicably blames [Callagy] for our current labor unrest” and maintain the Chief of Staff Victor Aenlle is the problem.
“Rather than scapegoat, the moment calls for reflection and consideration of bona fide concerns of the sheriff’s employees,” a statement from the unions read.
The Board of Supervisors had previously said it was “reviewing her complaint and will take the necessary time to determine the appropriate course of action,” which the sheriff felt was an inadequate response to her raised concerns.
“It sends a clear message: When you raise a complaint in San Mateo County as a woman, you will be dismissed,” Corpus said in a statement Monday.
On Sunday, Corpus redirected an ongoing series of contentions between the office’s administration and its labor unions, alleging Callagy is the source of strife. Corpus alleged Callagy has overstepped authority, inserted himself into operations of the Sheriff’s Office, and made unilateral decisions without her input in regards to union negotiations.
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The DSA and OSS held a vote of no confidence against Aenlle over allegations of retaliation and unfair labor practices, which passed with 96% approval over 318 participants. The unions also filed a formal complaint against the Sheriff’s Office with the Public Employment Relations Board alleging unilateral decision making relating to overtime and staffing without union conference, and interference in protected union activities.
This labor unrest, Corpus said on Sunday, is a result of Callagy’s alleged “inappropriate backdoor interference.” The county executive was also described as a “bully” who sought to undermine Corpus’ authority as an elected official.
After Corpus fired former Assistant Sheriff Ryan Monaghan — shortly after he was interviewed by Judge LaDoris Cordell in an ongoing investigation into Aenlle — county officials raised concern of possible retaliation. An effort to reinstate Monaghan was one example of the “bullying” Corpus experienced by Callagy, she said Sunday. The DSA and OSS “are very concerned” about the allegations of retaliation against Monaghan, as well.
Corpus has said such allegations were “pure speculation” and has reiterated that “the coach picks the team.”
At the crux of the ongoing high-profile concerns within the Sheriff’s Office is a labor dispute, to which the unions hope to address soon.
“The DSA and OSS remain willing to work collaboratively with the sheriff to address the labor unrest while continuing to protect the public,” the statement read.
Ah yes, this soap opera continues and ultimately, with San Mateo County being the loser. And now we have the desperation of Corpus blaming sexism (if not now, it would eventually be added to the mix). Let’s hope San Mateo County has liability insurance to pay for Monaghan’s dismissal as I predict that is likely to be one result. Another is that recruiting for the Sheriff’s office will suffer and there may be more resignations of existing staff (assuming Corpus doesn’t fire them). Thanks, SMDJ for continuing to cover this soap opera. This reality TV is just as, if not more exciting than network offerings.
The enmity between the Sheriff and the County Executive did not happen overnight. I feel Christina should forward a complaint to the Board of Supervisors concerning what she believes was inappropriate conduct by Mike. However, when the Supervisors respond that they will give her complaint the attention it deserves before taking action... that's not good enough for the complainant. She chooses to escalate this matter before the Supervisors can meet with her or in closed session.
There is one item mentioned by the Sheriff that has me scratching my head. She claims Mike "made unilateral decisions without her input in regards to union negotiations." If I'm not mistaken, negotiations with county employee unions are the purview of the County Executive... not the Sheriff. She is not empowered to sit across the bargaining table to make a deal with the deputies who work under her direction. So, if Mike is making decisions about negotiations without consulting Christina, that may be entirely within the scope of his duties and responsibilities as County Executive. I'm guessing he feels comfortable doing so based on his years of experience as a county representative. Even so, whatever deal he makes with the deputies has to be affirmed by the Supervisors. It's unlikely he is presenting counteroffers at the table without the Supervisors giving him authority to do so. Christina says Mike is out of line... is he? Does anyone else have information about the Sheriff's formal and informal role in contract negotiations?
Hi Ray, thanks for the additional thoughts and commentary here and in past soap opera episodes, especially regarding union negotiations. A quick check shows collective bargaining agreements for the county are under the purview of Employee & Labor Relations under the HR department. You are correct that the County Executive is one of the folks who signs off on MOU’s for unions related to law enforcement and Sheriff’s Sergeants (perhaps all others, but I haven’t bothered to check), in addition to other HR folks. As you’ve stated, Sheriff Corpus has no signature authority so perhaps her bellyaching about union negotiations is just another attempt to throw everything and the kitchen sink at the wall and hope something sticks. Perhaps the SMDJ can incorporate information regarding responsibility for union negotiations in future articles.
In earlier articles, there was mention of “mandatory” overtime.I don’t know if that’s in the contract but if not, perhaps the next chess move is to turn down OT? Maybe Corpus and her chief of staff (after doing the work to become entitled to wear a uniform) will need to start walking a beat.
While it may appear the county's HR department runs the negotiations show... sure... they coordinate bargaining sessions, document the proceedings, and order the coffee and doughnuts. But make no mistake... they are working under the direction of the County Executive's office. Nothing gets presented by management without his approval.
Corpus is already playing the victim - dealing with infighting - firing people - and an now an outside investigation - instead of protecting San Mateo County and putting forth meaningful and impactful programs - color me shocked.
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(5) comments
Ah yes, this soap opera continues and ultimately, with San Mateo County being the loser. And now we have the desperation of Corpus blaming sexism (if not now, it would eventually be added to the mix). Let’s hope San Mateo County has liability insurance to pay for Monaghan’s dismissal as I predict that is likely to be one result. Another is that recruiting for the Sheriff’s office will suffer and there may be more resignations of existing staff (assuming Corpus doesn’t fire them). Thanks, SMDJ for continuing to cover this soap opera. This reality TV is just as, if not more exciting than network offerings.
Hello, Terence
The enmity between the Sheriff and the County Executive did not happen overnight. I feel Christina should forward a complaint to the Board of Supervisors concerning what she believes was inappropriate conduct by Mike. However, when the Supervisors respond that they will give her complaint the attention it deserves before taking action... that's not good enough for the complainant. She chooses to escalate this matter before the Supervisors can meet with her or in closed session.
There is one item mentioned by the Sheriff that has me scratching my head. She claims Mike "made unilateral decisions without her input in regards to union negotiations." If I'm not mistaken, negotiations with county employee unions are the purview of the County Executive... not the Sheriff. She is not empowered to sit across the bargaining table to make a deal with the deputies who work under her direction. So, if Mike is making decisions about negotiations without consulting Christina, that may be entirely within the scope of his duties and responsibilities as County Executive. I'm guessing he feels comfortable doing so based on his years of experience as a county representative. Even so, whatever deal he makes with the deputies has to be affirmed by the Supervisors. It's unlikely he is presenting counteroffers at the table without the Supervisors giving him authority to do so. Christina says Mike is out of line... is he? Does anyone else have information about the Sheriff's formal and informal role in contract negotiations?
Hi Ray, thanks for the additional thoughts and commentary here and in past soap opera episodes, especially regarding union negotiations. A quick check shows collective bargaining agreements for the county are under the purview of Employee & Labor Relations under the HR department. You are correct that the County Executive is one of the folks who signs off on MOU’s for unions related to law enforcement and Sheriff’s Sergeants (perhaps all others, but I haven’t bothered to check), in addition to other HR folks. As you’ve stated, Sheriff Corpus has no signature authority so perhaps her bellyaching about union negotiations is just another attempt to throw everything and the kitchen sink at the wall and hope something sticks. Perhaps the SMDJ can incorporate information regarding responsibility for union negotiations in future articles.
In earlier articles, there was mention of “mandatory” overtime.I don’t know if that’s in the contract but if not, perhaps the next chess move is to turn down OT? Maybe Corpus and her chief of staff (after doing the work to become entitled to wear a uniform) will need to start walking a beat.
Hey, Terence
While it may appear the county's HR department runs the negotiations show... sure... they coordinate bargaining sessions, document the proceedings, and order the coffee and doughnuts. But make no mistake... they are working under the direction of the County Executive's office. Nothing gets presented by management without his approval.
A "blue" flu is not a good idea.
Corpus is already playing the victim - dealing with infighting - firing people - and an now an outside investigation - instead of protecting San Mateo County and putting forth meaningful and impactful programs - color me shocked.
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