Union files unfair practice charges

On July 12, the Millbrae City Council ordered City Manager Ralph Jaeck to begin contract negotiations with the union about the elimination of Millbrae's police dispatch. The council asked that Jaeck return in September with a specific proposal.

Jaeck, who was not aware of the charges being filed, said he has met with those involved to discuss the changes. All of those impacted will have a job. However some might need to be relocated, Jaeck said.

"They have to bargain with us," said Mike McLaughlin, Sr. , secretary-treasurer of Teamsters Local 856. "They've only said they were doing this. They think they just have to talk to us about the effects."

Larry Ferrigno, business representative for the dispatchers, explained there are four people affected by the proposal. One will stay on at Millbrae to handle records and filing. The other three will be transferred to work for the county. However, there are only two dispatcher positions open at the county. The remaining person will be placed in a different position with the county but the union just isn't sure what that will be.

Ferrigno said they are working with incomplete information, questioning the accuracy of the money that will be saved with this plan.

He also pointed out keeping one person on for records will not be enough.

"Half Moon Bay and San Carlos are equal to Millbrae in the amount of records work and they budget for a supervisor and three records clerks," Ferrigno said.

These are just some of the issues and objections McLaughlin and Ferrigno plan to voice at the City Council meeting tonight.

The council meets at 7 p.m., Millbrae City Hall, Council Chambers, 621 Magnolia Avenue.

Heather Murtagh can be reached by e-mail: heather@smdailyjournal.com or by phone: (650) 344-5200 ext. 105. What do you think of this story? Send a letter to the editor: letters@smdailyjournal.com.