DOC/AFSCME LABOR MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

AUGUST 15, 2006 1300-1500

DOC CENTRAL OFFICE

 

 

Members Present:   Connie Jones, Ruth Dahl, Lance Lafrinier, Rick Hillengass, Mike Keapproth, Steve Amic, John Westmoreland, Jerry Firkus, Erik Skon, Eric Langworthy, Eric Olesen, Patti Couch, Sid Helseth, Al Tervo, Jeff Evans, Jessica Symmes, Terry Carlson, Anita Alexander, Mike Hermerding .

 

 

1.                  Union Membership (PEOPLE):

 

·        Sid brought forth concerns that management has in regards to loss-time AFSCME PEOPLE committee members being on grounds of the facilities handing out information on PEOPLE (Public Employees Organized to Promote Legislative Equality).  Explained that this is not a membership drive nor does it represent one political party over another, it is AFSCME’s political arm.  Much discussion occurred on what PEOPLE is about and the process of raising money.

·        Eric Langworthy had PEOPLE members at Rush City with Warden Feneis’ approval.  It went well as a table was set up in the visiting lobby with information on the committee as well as the ability to sign up.

Sandy O’Hara from Moose Lake stated that this sounded political and said no to PEOPLE being on grounds at that facility.  John and Sid reiterated that this is not a membership drive and also is being done throughout the state at other  agencies (DNR, DOT, DHS, etc.). 

·        Connie Jones will look into policy issues and get back in touch with Sid in the next couple of days.

·        Erik is not prepared to make a decision at this time.  He still has concern on how many times these events are to occur.   Explained this would not be an everyday occurrence and in cases such as Rush City the committee came to the facility to meet staff the one time, after that there are follow-up meetings later outside of the facility.

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.                  Safety Shoe Funding:

           

·        Erik stated that there was a review of the policy for safety shoes and there has been a change in a positive direction.  There are still some points that need to be addressed such as the safety tips for shoes.   Reiterated that because of the concern coming forward at this meeting there has been a positive move with safety shoes.

 

3.                  Local Labor/Management Visits:  

           

·        Erik and Dennis have made it half way through with visiting facilities local labor management meetings.  Erik is very impressed with the communication channels that are occurring on the local level.   Compliments given to the locals for their effective communication with offenders, is noted by the limited amount of staff assaults.   Erik and Dennis will continue with attending the rest of local labor management not already attended.

 

4.                  Good News Items:  

           

·        Erik handed out responses from wardens, from most facilities, on good news items coming from their facilities.

 

5.                  Rumor Control:

 

·        None

 

6.                  Other Items:

 

a)      Steve Amic attended the State Retirement Conference.   Spoke about Bush’s pension reform bill.  The bill has in it a $3,000. credit for offsetting health care costs.  This would be effective in January and applies for those who reach retirement age of 55.  This would not apply to those who retired earlier than 55.   This bill was passed by the Senate and the House, now goes to President Bush for approval and signing.

 

b)     Mike Hermerding discussed the Core committee that is planning for the flu pandemic.   The committee consists of wardens, security, health and safety personnel.   There is a link at the top of facility intranet pages labeled “pandemic flu”;   Mike encourages all staff to view this site as there is information regarding the DOC’s position on this epidemic.  There is also a link for asking questions or placing comments.  Discussion ensued in regards to what are some possible outcomes and worst-case scenarios.   Al questioned what the facilities will do with offenders and staff.  Mike stated that the committee is still researching emergency plans, protective gear and food.  The committee is working and meeting regularly.  When asked about dates of completion, it was explained that the planning is based on phases and that phases coincide with events.   At this point they are in phase 3 which they are talking about protocols.  Each phase also indicates a list of items that need to be completed for that phase.   For further information :

http://sharepoint.doc.state.mn.us/pandemicflu/default.aspx . 

 

 

Next Meeting:

 

·        November 28, 2006 1300-1500 @ DOC Central Office