The Street Light Technician was negotiated in 2002. During talks about the position, the Union had asked and was told that the Street Light Technician positions would not have an impact on the Troublemen classification. The Union left the table with a clear understanding that if Troublemen classifications were to be reduced, than there would be no Street Light Technician positions.
Joe Adams, Business Manager SCU-8, and the System Committee made it very clear today that our stance on this issue has not changed. In order to reduce Troublemen positions, the Street Light Technician positions would have to be abolished first.
I for one believe that a reduction in forces is the wrong way to fix any financial problem we are having. Especially when it comes to highly skilled positions in an industry that is in need of more Journeymen. I would think we would be staffing up and preparing for the future.
I understand that the growth is not like it was the past several years but the key word there is growth. We are not in a declining market. We are still adding customers everyday.
I will keep you informed of any new information as it becomes available. Please continue to work safe and I'll see you at Septembers Union meeting.
