November 2002

PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE - ROBERT A. KACZMAREK

We continue to be patient in discussions with the City. The financial position of the City of Burbank is not as positive as a year ago. Near term revenue projections for the State are declining, and to a lesser degree, the City. This is compounded by the increased CalPERS employer cost for Police Safety - 8.8%, and Fire Safety - 3.058%. In 2004 these costs are projected to increase for Police - 20%, for Fire - 15%, and for Miscellaneous - 2% (We are in the miscellaneous group). These costs and possible take aways of municipal dollars by the State are straining the City's budget. All of this has caused the City Council to carefully consider how to direct City staff on BCEA, BMA and BFF negotiations.

We have continued to talk about Retiree Medical issues and should have more to tell you at the meeting.

The BCEA has negotiations scheduled for the week of November 7th in which we hope to have a proposal to consider. As soon as we have an acceptable deal we will bring it to the membership. We will have more information at the Nominations/Membership meeting, scheduled for November 20, 2002, 5:00pm at the old Buena Vista Library, 401 N. Buena Vista.

NEW LAWS

SB 379 (Alarcon): Civilian Public Safety Employees Rights. This extends the Police Officer Bill of Rights to civilian employees of Police Department with some exclusions. Now civilian and sworn employees have similar right in investigations, and disciplines. Also changes in Workers Compensation law, Unemployment insurance, and extension of benefits were passed and signed into law. You may have heard about the paid family leave that also became law. This law covers employees in the State Disability fund. We are covered by the City disability insurance so we are not included.