After a drawn out and hard fought negation process, the parties agreed on a CBA which included simple language regarding paid time-off.  At least that is what the Union thought until it was actually time for the Town to calculate the time owed to the members.  The Town’s Board of Selectmen, none of whom took part in the negotiations, came up with an alternate interpretation that delayed the members increase for a year. 

The NEPBA would not stand for this and filed a grievance.   The arbitrator ruled in favor of the Union stating that it is crystal clear that the language in the CBA supported the Union’s position.  She went on to state that regardless of how you analyze that language – the Union would prevail.  She then ordered the Town to place all the members in their appropriate level.

A good deal of this arbitration dealt with what actually transpired at negotiations.  The testimony from the Union was enhanced by relying on detailed notes and minutes that were taken during the negotiation session from the Union representatives.   Just another example of why it is a good practice to take notes and document everything – you never know when you may need it.

Click below to read the full decision: