innovative ideas sought for pay negotiations

[bedpanartist]

We're getting ready to renogotiate the pay clause in our union's contract, bus drivers for a large inner-city school district - Dayton, Ohio. Unfortunately, the district has been hit with huge budget cuts last year: laid-off more than 200 teachers, a levy that failed, and money bleeding from the explosion of charter schools in the city.

We negotiated a good contract last year, sans for the pay, which we received a 1.25% pay raise, hardly enough to keep up with inflation.

So, with all that said, anyone here know of some innovative ways to get more pay for your membership? We haven't been keeping up with inflation for years.

[Vincardog]

1. What ever the pay bump get an escalation clause every 6 months

[Omaha Steve]

2. Checklist of Contract Clauses

http://www.afscme.org/members/1258.cfm

Introduction

This checklist identifies contract language included in typical collective bargaining agreements, to inform or remind negotiators about what topics could be covered.

Every bargaining is unique, so certain items may be more or less relevant than others, depending on the workers and employers involved. Some items may not be appropriate for a given setting. The checklist also includes items important from the union's perspective.

Management will likely propose provisions for management rights or a zipper clause, which are common in collective bargaining agreements. Sample language for all items on this checklist is available from the Research and Collective Bargaining Services Department.

The first item on any checklist is understanding the needs and concerns of the bargaining unit, and then focusing on core issues that matter to the entire bargaining unit, and on provisions that help build union power. The items on this checklist should be considered in that light.

FULL long checklist at link.