MINUTES FOR THE ACADEMIC YEAR, 2002-2003
UFF USF Chapter Meeting September 6, 2002
In Attendance: J. McKiernan-Gonzalez, S. Singh, F. Zerla, N. Tyson, K. McCook, M Doherty, B. Welker, S. Dorn, N. Anderson, S. Greenbaum, M. Klisch, G. McColm, R. Weatherford, P. Levy, J. Nettleton, A. Shapiro H. Hechiche, G. Paveza, J. Kelly, J. Baggerly
The members agreed to add an item on non-discrimination language to the printed agenda as item6.5. Agenda adopted.
It was announced that the University has requested funding for the Employee Assistance Program. No consultation will be needed.
Discussion of Commitment 2002, McBride candidacy, and possibility of a 5% university budget cut after the election.
S. Dorn and S. Greenbaum reported on organizing. August goals were met. All forms are to go to J. Nettleton.
F. Zerla reported on the treasury. R. Weatherford read a letter from the City College of New York Professional Staff Congress in support of the USF UFF chapter, accompanied by a $100 gift to the chapter.
M. Klisch announced there would be grievance training on September 26 for UFF members in the Counseling Center.
B. Welker reported on FBOE’s response to UFF’s salary proposal. Discussion as to whether university can give raises without a ratified contract.
G. McColm announced next newsletter would be out in early October. There was a discussion as to best way to present news from the regional campuses.
There was a discussion of Al Arian/ academic freedom issues.
R. Weatherford reported on the actions of the UFF Chapter Presidents in regards to contract implementation and negotiation. There was a discussion as to what additional actions the USF chapter should take. After discussion there was a motion to allow Roy Weatherford to issue public statements on these issues as necessary. The motion was ruled out of order.
J. Baggerly representing the (USF) President’s Committee on Gender Issues discussed reasons the Committee is seeking Collective Bargaining Agreement language barring discrimination based on sexual orientation. B. Welker reviewed UFF’s many attempts to place such language in the agreement. To have the chapter issue a resolution, a member will have to offer a motion on the issue.
It was announced that Senator Graham would be visiting USF for an evening speaking engagement. G. Paveza announced that Faculty Senate would cosponsor a debate on the Graham Initiative. At the next faculty senate meeting there will be a speaker on censure and USF’s lawyers will speak on the university’s actions regarding Dr. Al-Arian.
Adjournment
Submitted September 8, 2002 by M. Doherty, Secretary
.
UFF USF Chapter Meeting September 20. 2002
In Attendance: S. Singh, F. Zerla, N. Tyson, L. Bird, K. McCook, M Doherty, B. Welker, S. Dorn, N. Anderson, S. Greenbaum, M. Klisch, G. McColm, R. Weatherford, P. Levy, L.Kay, M. Pace, F. Ottanelli, J. Nettleton., J. Kelly, C. Hall, J. Noonan, A. Shapiro, S. Permuth, B. Barnett, B. Ingalls
There was no printed agenda.
Thanks were extended to Dr. Ottanelli for organizing the Grebstein presentation.
The rest of the meeting was devoted to the issue of union recognition, USF’s response to UFF’s petition to the Public Employee Rights Commission, and the chapter’s response.
S. Dorn moved that “The Chapter ask the university to give written assurances that the contract will continue and the union will be voluntarily recognized within seven working days” Roy Weatherford proposed an amendment to change the date for the university’s response to October 3. As amended the motion read:
“The USF UFF Chapter asks the university to give written assurances by October 3, 2002 that the contract will continue and the union will be voluntarily recognized”
Motion Passed.
B. Welker reported that there have been no further developments in bargaining with FBOE.
Adjournment
Submitted by M. Doherty, Secretary September 22, 2002
UFF USF Chapter Meeting October 5, 2002
In Attendance: S. Singh, F. Zerla, N. Tyson, L. Bird,. M Doherty, B. Welker, N. Anderson, S. Greenbaum, G. McColm, P. Levy, F. Ottanelli, J. Nettleton, H. Vanden, T. Wonder, A. Shapiro, J. Kelly. R. Gagan, H. Hechiche, S. Wohlmuth, K. McCook, J. Noonan
Agenda adopted. M. Klisch chaired meeting.
Copies of Dr. Genshaft’s response to chapter on union recognition were distributed.
S. Dorn moved that M. Klisch, Roy Weatherford, and Tom Auxter draft an open letter urging voluntary recognition of UFF to be published in Oracle as an ad.
An amendment to let the authors decide on size of the ad was accepted.
An amendment to write the letter to faculty rather than BOT passed, not unanimously.
As amended, the motion authorized M. Klisch, R. Weatherford, and Tom Auxter to draft an open letter to faculty urging voluntary recognition of UFF, to be published in the Oracle as an ad. The motion passed, not unanimously.
F. Zerla reported approximately $7900 in regular treasury and $2800 in membership funds.
M. Klisch reported that there are no new grievances.
B. Welker said there are no more proposals from UFF on bargaining. There was a discussion of the Dr. Genshaft’s proposed faculty raise program. There was a motion to have the Chapter President address faculty senate on this issue that was not seconded.
The next newsletter goes to print this weekend.
There was a report from the Membership Chair.
The Bargaining Team will have a workshop Nov 8-10.
N. Tyson reported on Amendment 11. There was consensus to invite Tom Auxter to come on October 18 and present his video at Riverfront Raise party, and to also invite Rosie Joels.
There was a suggestion that the sandwich order be increased for the chapter meetings and changed to a minimum of 10% vegetarian, including juice.
Adjournment
Submitted by M. Doherty, Secretary, November 11, 2002
UFF USF Town Meeting October 18 2002
Held in CIS Auditorium
Chair: USF Chapter President Roy Weatherford
Present: 36 apparent members of the bargaining unit, plus assorted kiddies,
plus UFF President Tom Auxter, plus a reporter
1. Pres. Weatherford welcomed the attendees.
2. Agenda and special rules adopted.
This meeting is open to all members of the bargaining unit, and hence
its resolutions are not legally binding on the USF Chapter.
Two resolutions are proposed by the Steering Committee, for
consideration by the Town Meeting.
3. Resolution on Collective Bargaining
The USF-UFF bargaining unit meeting held on Oct. 18, 2002, hereby
asks the United Faculty of Florida and its affiliates to take all
legal means neceessary to protect the collective-bargaining rights
of faculty at the University of South Florida.
Amendment by Edward Levine:
That UFF invite the AAUP to compete in the upcoming
certification election.
Amendment fails for lack of a second.
Resolution passed unanimously.
4. Resolution on Bargaining Issues
The USF-UFF bargaining-unit town meeting held on October 18, 2002,
hereby asks the bargaining committee of the USF chapter of the
United Faculty of Florida to research and propose language to advance
the following goals in enforceable, grievable provisions of a collective
bargaining agreement that go beyond the existing collective bargaining
agreement:
(1) elected faculty governance at the university as a whole and, in
addition, in each college and department and on each campus;
(2) the definition of just cause for firing a tenured faculty member
through a concrete, exclusive list and the explicit prohibition against
firing a faculty member for "disruption" that is the responsibility of a
third party;
(3) maintenance of the existing proportion of employees in the bargaining
unit who are on tenured or tenurable lines and negotiation with the
university over increasing that proportion in the future;
(4) provision of more security for non-tenured faculty and employees by
having multi-year contracts for all non-tenure-earning faculty and
professional employees in the bargaining unit who have more than 6 years
of continuous service;
(5) parity among faculty and professional employees in tenure and
non-tenure lines with regard to the infrastructure and other support the
university provides to complete written assignments, including support
for grant-writing, teaching, advising, and sabbatical and professional
leave opportunities;
(6) funding of raises earned by soft-money faculty and professional
employees to be guaranteed;
(7) an explicit prohibition against the increase in a class's size
without additional resources for a faculty member teaching that class
that is sufficient to maintain the same quality of education as existed
previously;
(8) a doubling of existing opportunities for sabbaticals and professional
leaves;
(9) tuition- and fee-free attendance of a spouse or domestic partner
and dependent children for one degree each; and
(10) significant enhancement of both merit-pay and across-the-board
raises.
DISCUSSION & AMENDMENTS ...
Motion to amend by Greg McColm, seconded by Mark Klisch, to add
(*) bar discrimination based on sexual identification/orientation.
Amendment passed.
Motion to amend by Edward Levine, seconded by ???, to add to (6):
to come out of central funds rather than departmental funds.
Amendment fails.
Motion to amend by Edward Levine, seconded by Sherman Dorn, to add to (10):
as well as parity in faculty salaries among previously designated
Research I universities in Florida (USF, UF, FSU).
Amendment passed.
Resolution passed.
5. The Strategic Plan: discussed by the Committee as a Whole
[The current draft of the Strategic Plan is on-line at
<http://www.acad.usf.edu/strategicplan/index.html>; it will
be presented to the Board of Trustees on Nov. 21.]
Greg McColm will compose a report on the Strategic Plan for
the next Chapter Meeting.
6. A. Presentation by UFF President Tom Auxter
All universities opposed UFF's petition to PERC to declare
UFF the designated bargaining agent for faculty at their
campuses. Some university administrations are actively
opposing UFF. Despite the apparent independence of the
boards, there are startling similarities in their actions,
and even the wording of their statements.
There is a $ 4 billion deficit in the state budget, and
there will probably be serious cuts in university budgets.
The contract is the most effective defense against many
consequences of the cuts.
B. Concluding discussion of the proposed President's Award
for Faculty Excellence by Roy Weatherford.
Under Florida state law, raises must be bargained. Raises
are covered in Article 23 of the contract. Last year, the
university proposed selective raises under Section 23.9,
which covers discretionary raises (which have a history of
being abused). At the time, UFF said that such raises
would be legal.
But in last year's bargaining, Article 23 was reopened,
and when bargaining went into impasse (over what the
Public Employees Relation Commission agreed was an
unlawfully intransigent demand by the Florida Board of
Education for full discretion in assigning raises), the
Legislature gave everyone 2.5 % raises -- and did nothing
else on Article 23. Thus UFF contends that any additional
raises under Article 23 must be negotiated, not because UFF
opposes raises (since when do unions oppose raises?) but
because (a) UFF would prefer that raises be assigned lawfully
(under the bargaining process) and (b) this will be a tight
budget year, and UFF does not want all the available money
for raises to disappear into these awards -- unless the
majority of faculty agree to that policy.
Minutes submitted by Greg McColm October 31, 2002.
UFF USF Chapter Meeting November 1, 2002
In Attendance: F. Zerla, N. Tyson, M Doherty, B. Welker, S. Greenbaum, G. McColm, J. Nettleton, H. Hechiche, S. Wohlmuth, K. McCook, M. Klisch, G. Paveza, C. Jevitt, L.Kay, E. Warren, M. Scott. S. Singh
M. Klisch chaired meeting.
UFF Statewide President T. Auxter discussed the organizing campaign, Impact of Graham amendment, and authorization card drive.
F. Zerla reported $5071.65 in regular treasury, $3694.78 in membership account.
M. Klisch reported one new grievance on past practice.
B. Welker reported on bargaining. Discussion of UFF’s plan to award 100 faculty raises.
S. Greenbaum reported on membership drive.
G, McColm reported that the Bi-Weekly would be delayed.
S. Singh reported on seven arbitration cases. Two were settled at 100% of what UFF asked for.
G. McColm passed out a summary of USF’s strategic plan. There was discussion of Town Meeting Resolutions and question of adding text on marital status to resolutions discussed with no motions made.
Adjournment
Submitted by M. Doherty, Secretary, November 11, 2002
UFF USF Chapter Meeting November 15, 2002
In Attendance: F. Zerla, N. Tyson, M Doherty, B. Welker, S. Greenbaum, G. McColm, J. Nettleton, H. Hechiche, M. Klisch, L. Theirsen, A. Wolfe, S. Permuth, A. Shapiro, B. Weisman, F. Ottanelli, L. Bird, J. Noonan, S.Dorn, S. Singh, R. Weatherford
The Chapter recognized the work of N. Tyson and K. McCook on election.
Agenda adopted.
Discussion of rules changes proposed by BOT. There was consensus that these proposed rules changes effect terms and conditions of the contract. Members discussed the chapter’s options.
S. Permuth moved that:
The USF UFF Chapter, in consultation with legal counsel, should issue a formal letter of complaint and concern in regards to the new procedures and rules being adopted by the Board of Trustees without appropriate notification, discussion and collective bargaining with the USF United Faculty of Florida Chapter. The letter is to be presented to the Board of Trustees no later than Thursday, November 21.
The USF UFF Chapter make public to all constituencies of the university and unit issues germane to rule changes placed on the agenda of November 21st meeting of the Board of Trustees by appropriate public and private means.
The USF UFF Chapter President should continue to explore his relationship with President Genshaft to resolve the issue.
Resolutions adopted unanimously.
There was a consensus to focus on the proposed rules changes.
Discussion of bargaining team selection. N. Anderson moved that the USF UFF Chapter President appoint a chief negotiator and the bargaining team. Motion passed.
There was a report on the membership drive.
F. Zerla reported that the fall rebate check came in. Treasury at $8336.21 and membership funds at $3212.20
M. Klisch reported no new grievances. S. Singh reported that there are 8 arbitrations statewide, including one from USF.
B. Welker reported on bargaining,
G. McColm reported there would be a special edition of the Bi-Weekly.
Discussion of AAUP press release and impact of Amendment 11. The Chapter is seeking a donation of a used PC for home use by the Chapter’s employee.
Adjournment
Submitted by M. Doherty, Secretary, November 16, 2002
UFF USF Chapter Meeting, December 13, 2002
In Attendance: H. Hechiche, S. Permuth, M. Klisch, S. Greenbaum, R. Weatherford, S. Singh, B. Welker, M. Doherty, G. McColm, F. Ottanelli, A. Wolfe, K. McCook, F. Zerla, J. Nettleton, R. Russell, L. Bird, S. H Lee, N. Tyson, H. Vanden, B. Ingalls, S. Dorn,
No Printed Agenda, Agenda items in addition to reports were Contract Extension, Temporary Rules, and E-mail Privacy.
The Chapter President announced that the USF UFF bargaining team members are:
M. Klisch, S. Greenbaum, G. McColm, A. Shapiro, S. Permuth, and K. McCook
There may be no release time spring semester for grievance personnel.
S. Dorn reported on the USF Board of Trustees Meeting and the vote on temporary rules. There was discussion about filing a chapter grievance.
There was a motion to file an unfair labor practice against the BOT, which the maker of the motion moved to table. The issue of filing an unfair labor practice will be raised with state UFF.
The chapter will establish a working group on the rules changes consisting of S. Dorn, L. Bird, F. Ottanelli, and S. Greenbaum.
S. Greenbaum moved that all USF email addresses be removed from USF’s yahoo list. There was a discussion on e-mail privacy and the motion was not seconded.
Adjournment.
Submitted by M. Doherty, Secretary, January 4, 2003
UFF USF Chapter Meeting January 10, 2003
In Attendance: F. Zerla, N. Tyson, M Doherty, B. Welker, S. Greenbaum, G. McColm, J. Nettleton, H. Hechiche, M. Klisch, L. Bird, S. Singh, R. Weatherford, J. Martin, P. Levy, R. Russell, F. Ottanelli, G. Benadusi, H. Vanden, B. Barnet, W. Stavig, N. Anderson, J. McKiernan-Gonzalez, S. Wohlmuth, K. McCook.
R. Weatherford reported on current governance issues. USF ended UFF Release time on January 7th and faculty who would normally have it are teaching a full assignment. No decision on dues deduction. The Board of Governors readopted statewide rules. There was discussion of UFF’s January 7th request to USF to bargain and President Genshaft’s response requesting PERC certification. New College will recognize UFF.
H. Vanden moved that the chapter from a communications committee with responsibility for communicating crisis information to faculty. The motion passed. This will be an ad hoc committee appointed by the chapter President to deal with current crises.
S. Greenbaum moved that the USF UFF Chapter have a special meeting of all faculty before next Board of Trustees meeting. P. Levy moved that the wording be changed to” meeting or meetings.” The amendment passed, and the motion as amended passed as
“The USF UFF Chapter shall have a special meeting or meetings of all faculty before the next Board of Trustees meeting.”
F. Zerla reported $7782.66 in regular treasury with spring rebate yet to come in, and $4769.11 in membership account.
It was proposed and there were no objections to the Chapter spending $350 to join the local Chapter of Commerce
M. Klisch described 7 new grievances, including two chapter grievances on the temporary university rules and release time, and Dr. Al-Arian’s grievance. S. Singh reported that UFF won an arbitration.
G. McColm reported that <http://www.uffusf.edu> is a fully operational website backup. There will be another newsletter out in 1-2 weeks.
Adjournment
Submitted by M. Doherty, Secretary, January 21, 2003
UFF USF Chapter Meeting January 24, 2003
In Attendance: F. Zerla, N. Tyson, M Doherty, B. Welker, S. Greenbaum, J. Nettleton, M. Klisch, L. Bird, S. Singh, R. Weatherford, E. Ford, R. Russell, B. Barnett, N. Anderson, S. Wohlmuth, S. Dorn, A. Wolfe, G. McColm, A. Shapiro, W. Stavig, J. Martin.
The UFF Senate Meeting and the chapter Communications Committee were added to the agenda before it was adopted.
Dues deduction will continue. There was a discussion of the voluntary recognition issue vs. establishing UFF’s right to bargain in court. There were no motions but the consensus was for the chapter to continue on its current course and await the PERC ruling.
It was decided to attend the Faculty Senate General Faculty Meeting rather than having a separate UFF campus-wide meeting. The Communications Committee will do a handout. Members of the Committee include S. Greenbaum, G. McColm, and H. Vanden, B. Barnett. Others are welcome to join. UFF will have a table at the meeting.
There was discussion about the Al-Arian grievance hearing. R. Weatherford will attend.
S. Dorn reported on another document authored by the UFF Task Force on USF Rules. He discussed need to make membership drive an ongoing function rather than a specific drive.
F. Zerla reported $7459.66 in regular treasury and $4589.11 in membership with the spring rebate to come.
S. Singh reported on the release time grievances. USF is now rejecting grievances filed with UFF after January 7th.
B. Welker announced there would be a bargaining workshop in February.
G. McColm requested a meeting with the Communications Committee.
There was a discussion about upcoming chapter elections, including UFF Senators, and UFF statewide offices. It was announced that the St Petersburg campus has decided to honor the summer school pay terms in the contract this summer. J. Nettleton will invite the other campus unions to come to the next regular chapter meeting.
Adjournment
Submitted by M. Doherty, Secretary, February 9, 2003
UFF USF Chapter Meeting February 7, 2003
In Attendance: F. Zerla, N. Tyson, M Doherty, B. Welker, S. Greenbaum, J. Nettleton, M. Klisch, L. Bird, S. Singh, R. Weatherford, P. Levy, R. Russell, F. Ottanelli, B. Barnett, N. Anderson, J. McKiernan-Gonzalez, S. Wohlmuth, K. McCook, A. Shapiro, S. Dorn.
The agenda was amended to include a report on the University Rules Committee and a discussion of recognition strategy and then adopted.
Statewide UFF President Tom Auxter reported on voluntary recognition at UCF and UNF, and on how the issue is being handled at other universities. An unfair labor practice has been filed at FSU. He discussed UFF’s strategy, and possible rulings from PERC.
F. Ottanelli reported on the first meeting of the University rules committee and their need for clarity on a proposal from the Faculty Senate Executive Committee that Faculty Senate develop a policy document on shared governance. L. Bird and S. Greenbaum reported on this and on another Faculty Senate Executive Committee proposal for a faculty committee to review terminations of tenured faculty. These proposals will both go to the full Faculty Senate.
There was discussion of voluntary recognition vs. filing for amended certification. S. Dorn moved that the chapter authorize Roy Weatherford to request that UFF file a request for amended certification upon discussion with the state office of UFF and other UFF chapters.
Motion passed, not unanimously.
S Dorn reported on organizing drive, there would be a meeting on organizing after the next chapter meeting.
There will be bargaining training in Orlando this weekend. The Excellence awards were given to 139 faculty and varied from $23,000 to $3000. One grievance has been filed on the awards. Congratulations were offered to the recipients, however the chapter will express regret about the awards process.
S. Greenbaum noted that the deadline for nominations for Faculty Senate is near.
Adjournment
Submitted by M. Doherty, Secretary, February 9, 2003
UFF USF Chapter Meeting February 21, 2003
In Attendance: N. Tyson, M Doherty, B. Welker, J. Nettleton, M. Klisch, L. Bird, S. Singh, B. Barnett, N. Anderson, S. Dorn, G. McColm, B. Welker, P. Brewer, H. Vanden, S. Gaggi, K. McCook, C. Jevitt, L. Kay, M. Scott,
M. Klisch chaired the meeting. The following agenda was adopted:
Resolution on defending the contract
Election Committee
Bargaining-Certification
Committee Reports
Scholarship Funds
There was a discussion about the chapter’s public response to the indictment of Dr. Sami Al-Arian. To begin the discussion, S. Dorn moved that the chapter issue a statement he had prepared. The statement was amended, and the members were asked if there were objections to making a substitute motion to adopt the statement as amended. There were no objections, and the following statement was moved and adopted:
“The United Faculty of Florida defends the contractual and due process rights of those it represents. Professor Sami Al-Arian is in the bargaining unit at the University of South Florida, and we defend his rights related to his job on campus, as we do for all faculty members.
Our only comment in the pending criminal case is to affirm the right of every person to be presumed innocent until proven guilty.”
S. Dorn nominated S. Singh as the chapter’s election chair. B. Barnet and M. Klisch will serve on the election committee. The motion that this constitute the election committee passed.
M. Klisch reported on the request for amended certification presented to the Board of Trustees.
B. Welker reported that he is on a committee to develop a model contract for the UFF chapters. There was no Treasurer’s report.
M. Klisch reported that the chapter grievances on rules changes and release time were denied at step 1 and will go to step 2. Post January 7th grievances were returned by USF. The Presidential salary awards are grievable because they were not bargained. On statewide contract enforcement, S. Singh reported that UCF would send one grievance on to arbitration. There was a reminder that bargaining unit members are able to file individual unfair labor practices.
B. Barnett and G. McColm reported on the activities of the communication committee. S. Dorn will contact the UFF foundation for information on making changes to the UFF scholarship fund. B. Barnett moved that “If it is logistically possible we expand the UFF scholarship fund to include Graduate Assistant Union members.” Motion passed unanimously.
Adjournment
Submitted by M. Doherty, Secretary, February 23,2003
UFF USF Chapter Meeting March 7, 2003
In Attendance: N. Tyson, M Doherty, B. Welker, J. Nettleton, M. Klisch, L. Bird, S. Singh, B. Barnett, N. Anderson, S. Dorn, G. McColm, B. Welker, P. Brewer, H. Vanden, S. Gaggi, K. McCook, C. Jevitt, L. Kay, M. Scott
The printed agenda was adopted.
There was a report on the request for amended certification, PERC, and BOT-UFF negotiations on recognition.
Election Chair S. Singh described process. F. Zerla withdrew his nomination due to his impending retirement. It was decided to seek specific nominations for FTP/NEA Attendees rather than drawing from list of UFF Senators.
Open Nominations for Chapter President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer, and Senators. Art Shapiro was nominated as UFF Senator, Mel Pace, Darlene Bruner, Janice Fauske, and Jerry Notaro as FTP/NEA Attendees.
The Nominations phase of the chapter meeting closed, although nominations remained open until 5 PM.
There was discussion of forming a retired members group-there is a retiree membership category in the chapter constitution.
Bob Welker was recognized for his work in the certification card campaign.
There was a report that the Central Labor Council (the Chapter is a member) endorsed Pam Iorio in the Tampa mayoral race.
There was a discussion of issues relating to Dr. Al-Arian and the Al-Arian website. G McColm asked for comments on changes he made to the Al-Arian website.
In response to a resolution passed by the United Educational Employees of Pasco County in favor of the Chapter’s stands, S. Dorn moved that “The Chapter thank them for the support of higher education union members, and principles of academic freedom” The motion passed unanimously.
F. Zerla reported $5589.20 in regular treasury and $41923.11 in membership funds. He asked for documentation of all expenses.
S. Dorn reported several grievances are at step 2. All post January 7 grievances being returned by USF, will go to unfair labor practice grievances.
Under other business F. Zerla noted that a student chapter of a mathematics society has been instructed to remove “USF” from their name.
Adjournment
Submitted by M. Doherty, Secretary, March 29, 2003
UFF USF Chapter Meeting March 21, 2003
In Attendance: F. Zerla, N. Tyson, M Doherty, B. Welker, S. Greenbaum, M. Klisch, S. Singh, R. Russell, S. Wohlmuth, K. McCook, S. Dorn, B. Ingalls, J. Noonan, L. Kay, T. Auxter
M. Klisch chaired meeting. This agenda was adopted although the order was shifted during the meeting.
UFF Statewide President Tom Auxter reported on the actions of USF and the Public Employee Relations Commission. USF’s offer to UFF was read, and then a letter from R. Weatherford urging voluntary recognition. S. Dorn moved that “ Statewide UFF accept the USF offer of voluntary recognition.” The motion was seconded and passed unanimously. The statewide office will process the necessary paperwork going to USF.
S. Singh reported on chapter elections. Ballots will be counted April 1 at 10AM at UFF office.
USF is now informing the chapter of all rules changes. Two examples were shown.
N. Tyson moved that “ Three issued in the developing Al-Arian story pertain directly to UFF/USF:
Academic freedom/freedom of speech
Due process relating to employment
Alleged misuse of university connection/facilities
Any news item having to do significantly with any of these to be forwarded by any member to Greg McColm or the UFF listserv, for Greg to add to the site. The Al-Arian site should be kept open-ended at least to that extent.”
During discussion an amendment was suggested to eliminate “alleged misuse of university connection/facilities” However before that could be moved or voted on there was a motion to table the resolution for one month. The tabling motion passed, not unanimously. The chapter will hold another discussion on the website at the chapter meeting one month from today.
F. Zerla reported $5404 in regular treasury and $4133.11 in membership funds. The spring allocation from UFF has not arrived yet.
B. Welker reported on development of model contract and initiated a discussion about using bargaining issues as recruitment issues.
S. Greenbaum reported on USF rules being proposed by Faculty Senate and on the shared governance document.
Adjournment
Submitted by M. Doherty, Secretary, March 29, 2003
UFF USF Chapter Meeting April 4, 2003
In Attendance: F. Zerla, N. Tyson, M Doherty, B. Welker, S. Greenbaum, M. Klisch, S. Singh, R. Russell, S. Wohlmuth, K. McCook, S. Dorn, J. Noonan, E. Ford, N. Anderson, L. Bird, J. Nettleton, A. Shapiro, B. Barnett, R. Weatherford
The printed agenda was adopted.
Election Chair S. Singh reported the results of chapter elections. The following people were elected and take office immediately.
Roy Weatherford Chapter President
Mark Klisch Vice President
Margaret Doherty Secretary
Sherman Dorn Treasurer
UFF/USF Senators (12)
Greg McColm
Nancy Tyson
Susan Greenbaum
Bob Welker
Mark Klisch
Sherman Dorn
Art Shapiro
Keith D. White
Steven B. Permuth
Elizabeth Barnett
Deana Michael
Cecilia Jevitt
UFF/USF Alternate Senators
Lilyan Kay
Tomaro Taylor
Fraser Ottanelli
Carolyn DiPalma
UFF/USF FEA Delegates (5)
Greg McColm
Mel Pace
Darla Bruner
Robert Egley
Nancy Tyson
UFF/USF FEA Alternates
William Calvin
William Hutchinson and Paul Terry
The election results will be published in the minutes and on the website.
The membership chairs announced that there would be a mailing to UFF supporters.
F. Zerla reported the membership funds at $3297.83 and Regular treasury at $4494.83
M. Klisch reported three requests for arbitration have been sent to contract enforcement committee. Grievances deal with the temporary rules and release time.
J. Nettleton reported on USF’s request to have a representative see the certification cards, and the process proposed by statewide UFF. B. Welker moved that someone from USF chapter be present to sure no notes are taken or lists kept during the inspection. The motion passed.
There was a discussion about bargaining strategy.
N. Tyson is temporarily managing the Al-Arian website. During a discussion of UCF’s actions in regard to its indicted faculty member it was noted that the actions of the USF chapter have protected faculty at other universities.
There was discussion about raises awarded on the USF Sarasota campus without consultation, and printed documentation was distributed. B. Welker moved to file a chapter grievance on the Sarasota raises. Motion passed unanimously.
R. Weatherford summarized the history USF’s temporary rules, and raised the issue of Faculty Senate’s involvement in rules that deal with terms and conditions of employment and the potential for conflict when two entities (UFF and Faculty Senate) negotiate in this area. This has been discussed with UFF’s lawyers and with Faculty Senate President Greg Paveza. L. Bird, who is a member of the Faculty Senate Committee recommending changes to the rules reviewed the timeline and indicated that the Committee will be incorporating many proposed changes to the draft rules at their next meeting. There was a discussion about the appropriateness of any faculty body endorsing rules that are not collectively bargained. Strategies and potential statements about the rules were discussed. B. Barnett moved that “ the Chapter issue a brief statement to the bargaining unit that voluntary recognition is coming, the chapter’s position is that the Collective Bargaining Agreement stands, that the temporary rules are superceded by the Collective Bargaining Agreement, and that any other rules are superceded. This statement should be sent out to the bargaining unit” The motion passed unanimously.
Under Other Business F. Zerla reported that as a result of the efforts of Dean Khator, USF has rescinded the policy of having student societies remove the “USF” from their names.
Adjournment
Submitted by M. Doherty, Secretary, April 7, 2003, 2003
UFF USF Chapter Meeting April 18, 2003
In Attendance: N. Tyson, M Doherty, B. Welker, S. Greenbaum, M. Klisch, S. Dorn, L. Bird, A. Shapiro, R. Weatherford, G. McColm, K. White, S. Permuth, B. Loeding, S. Singh, H. Hechiche, S. Wohlmuth, N. Anderson
Unfair Labor Practices were added to the agenda as item 3.5, and then amended agenda was adopted.
There was a motion to hold the regular chapter meeting May 2. The motion passed.
F. Zerla’s recognition was deferred to May 2 when it is hoped his plaque will be available.
Membership issues discussed included fact that there have been 50-60 new members since September, and that May-July will be dues free for members joining from May 1 on. S. Permuth made a motion to distribute departmental lists of UFF members to stewards. Motion passed.
G. McColm reported on website issues. S. Dorn moved that the chapter continue to pay for a private server, details to be left to the webmaster. The motion passed. The webmaster asked for advice on what type of content and services the website should provide.
S. Dorn reported $4134.28 in the regular chapter accounts and approximately $3100 in the membership accounts. The chapter rebate of $5000 has come in putting the total at $12, 592.80. The chapter will need to submit a new budget in June.
M. Klisch reported on the chapter grievance on the Sarasota campus raises. He has assisted two bargaining unit members with university process grievances. S. Dorn has assisted with an academic freedom grievance filed under both procedures. There was an informal resolution of a grievance on the Lakeland campus.
B. Welker needs the USF’s bargaining team’s schedules.
Discussion about a possible USF UFF bargaining council in addition to bargaining team. The Bi-Weekly will continue through the summer, and Dr. Al-Arian will be dropped as a regular agenda item at chapter meetings.
N. Anderson reported on raises given on the Sarasota campus with no UFF involvement, and distributed documents.
Discussion of the adoption of the new temporary rules by the Faculty Senate. Statewide UFF is requesting information on events that could be unfair labor practices. Discussion of bargaining timeline and strategy, but no motions.
Adjournment
Submitted by M. Doherty, Secretary, May 23, 2003
UFF USF Chapter Meeting May 2, 2003
In Attendance: N. Tyson, M Doherty, B. Welker, S. Greenbaum, S. Dorn, A. Shapiro, R. Weatherford, K. White, H. Hechiche, S. Wohlmuth, N. Anderson, J. Noonan, R. Russell, J. Nettleton, K. McCook, F. Zerla, L. Kay
There was no printed agenda.
The USF Chapter presented Fred Zerla with a plaque commemorating his years of service to the chapter and his exemplary record as Chapter Treasurer.
PERC has not acted on recognition paperwork, the issue of the contract is unresolved, and several unfair labor practices are prepared. There was a discussion of terminations, impact of budget cuts, and UFF strategy. A consultation was suggested, but there were no motions. There was agreement that the chapter should meet over the summer.
S. Dorn reported 8793.95 in regular treasury and 2937.83 in membership for a total of $11, 731.
S. Dorn moved “that the chapter ask for a consultation on issues related to the termination of faculty due to budget cuts” An amendment was offered to add “plus other general issues at the discretion of the Chapter President” The amendment passed and the motion passed as amended. .
B. Welker discussed coordinating the bargaining team schedule.
M. Klisch reported four unfair labor practices have been sent to statewide UFF including release time, temporary rules, and the Sarasota raises. There are two potential grievances on non-reappointment.
S. Dorn reported on membership campaign, needs volunteers to stuff envelopes. Need more stewards for Sarasota and Lakeland, and to replace retiring members.
AFT/NEA could possibly do presentation for members on benefits next fall. Philo Hutchinson from Georgia State is available to do a presentation on academic freedom in late May.
G. McColm will move the legislative page on the website to the off campus server. The next newsletter will be out in August.
There was a discussion of entrance/exit testing for Florida college students.
Adjournment
Submitted by M. Doherty, Secretary, May 23, 2003
UFF USF Chapter Meeting May 16, 2003
In Attendance: N. Tyson, M Doherty, B. Welker, S. Greenbaum, M. Klisch, K. McCook, S. Dorn, J. Noonan, L. Bird, J. Nettleton, A. Shapiro, B. Barnett, R. Weatherford, G. McColm, L. Kay, K. White, S. Permuth, P. Levy
The printed agenda was adopted.
S. Dorn moved that the May 30 chapter meeting be held on the St Petersburg Campus. The motion passed.
R Weatherford announced that the chapter has received an FEA Gold Membership Award for a 5% increase in membership. The Membership chairs discussed strategy for the drive.
M. Klisch reported that the University, with one exception, is not participating in the arbitration process. There was a discussion of terminations with notice. The first of USF’s unfair labor practices will be filed next week in Tallahassee. UFF recognition paperwork has been filed with PERC and will go to full committee.
S. Dorn reported on an informal resolution of a grievance.
The Provost has responded to the Chapter’s request for a consultation with an offer of an informal meeting with UFF and representatives of the Faculty Senate.
There was discussion about setting up a pre-bargaining meeting between UFF and USF representatives to set up dates and procedures for bargaining. There will be bargaining training in Orlando weekend of June 14-16. B. Welker passed out information on benefits and on UCF’s bargaining survey.
G. McColm reported that the Bi-Weekly is out. He has requested figures from USF on the number of laid off employees. There was consensus to delegate the recruiting of retired members to J. Noonan.
There was a report on changes that College of Public Health faculty are being asked to accept in their contracts changing the percentage of their positions that is tenure earning. There was agreement to accept the Provost’s offer of an informal meeting to include this issue.
The award plaque for increased membership was presented to Sherman Dorn.
R. Weatherford and S. Dorn will be attending the AAUP Meeting. There was a discussion about including Faculty Senate representatives in consultations with Provost.
Adjournment
Submitted by M. Doherty, Secretary, May 23, 2003
UFF USF Chapter Meeting May 30, 2003
In Attendance: M Doherty, B. Welker, S. Dorn, S. Feranandez, K. Carvalho-Knighton, P. Bauer, L. Kay, K. McCook, R. Arsenault, L. Rutherford, J. George, G. McColm, K. White, J. Schnur R. Weatherford.
This meeting was held at the St Petersburg campus immediately after the Freedom Forum presentation by Dr. Philo Hutcheson.
The agenda item on St Petersburg campus issues was moved up to #3, and an update on a consultation with university administration was added as the first agenda item. The agenda as amended was adopted.
The pre-consultation request for information on layoffs was returned because the university does not collect this information above the college level. There was a discussion about the upcoming informal meeting with the Provost. It was suggested that the relationship between the Tampa and St Petersburg campuses be an issue at the meeting.
There was a discussion and questions about how the St Petersburg campus will figure in the new contract with the Board of Trustees. While there will be one contract it may differentiate between campuses. Discussion of St Petersburg issues of teaching parity with Tampa, Memorandum of Understanding with their own Board of Trustees, composition of their bargaining unit, possibility of a St Petersburg UFF Chapter, lack of space and facilities for tenure earning faculty, and lack of detailed tenure and promotion criteria at department level (no departments on the St Petersburg Campus) Who will grant tenure, issue diplomas, and grant sabbaticals?
There was no Treasurer’s report; the annual budget will be out by the next chapter meeting.
G. McColm reported that Nancy Anderson is seeking volunteers for the Bargaining Committee, and that the off campus website will be reorganized.
There was a discussion of upcoming membership activities at the St Petersburg campus. It was suggested that copies of the collective bargaining agreement be distributed at the St Petersburg new faculty orientation.
Adjournment
Submitted June 15, 2003, M. Doherty, Secretary
UFF USF Chapter Meeting June 13, 2003
In Attendance: N. Tyson, M Doherty, B. Welker, S. Greenbaum, M. Klisch, R. Russell, S. Wohlmuth, K. McCook, J. Noonan, C. Jevitt, H. Hechiche, L. Kay, K. White
No printed agenda. This agenda was adopted:
I. Committee Reports
Bargaining Team
II. Old Business
III. New Business, Raises, and a Public Service Announcement
Mark Klisch chaired the meeting. UFF is counseling two potential grievants. There was a discussion as to whether bargaining unit members can insist on a UFF presence at conferences about layoffs. It was suggested that employees who desire a UFF presence make a written request to their superiors before the meeting.
Because S. Dorn and R. Weatherford are attending the American Association of University Professors annual meeting, there was no Treasurer’s report.
R. Russell reported on new membership and the “three free months” mailing.
B. Welker reported that there will probably be a pre-bargaining meeting in July, but bargaining may not start until the fall semester. The University of Central Florida will probably be the first state university to conduct individual bargaining.
G. McColm made another appeal for volunteers to serve and work on the Bargaining Committee.
There was a discussion of the bargaining survey. There was a motion to bring a sample of the survey to the next chapter meeting, amend it, and then send it out. The motion passed.
B. Welker requested that the survey rank the recipients’ preferences.
Much of the rest of the chapter meeting was devoted to preparing responses to a possible censure by the AAUP.
G. McColm requested information and assistance from members with expertise on bargaining issues.
N. Tyson reported on a petition to the Hillsborough County Commission and other government entities to adopt an anti USA Patriot Act resolution.
Adjournment
Submitted June 16, 2003 M. Doherty, Secretary.
Submitted by M. Doherty, Secretary, April 7, 2003, 2003
UFF USF Chapter Meeting July 11, 2003
In Attendance: N. Tyson, M Doherty, S. Wohlmuth, K. McCook, K. White, S. Dorn, A. Shapiro, R. Weatherford, M. Klisch, L. Kay, C. Jevitt
Printed agenda adopted.
Discussion concerning distribution of Bargaining Survey. The chapter added a category to the Bargaining Survey for discretionary administrative salary increases.
The membership chairs reported on plans for the new faculty orientations.
The Chapter Treasurer presented the 2003-2004 budget. S. Greenbaum moved its adoption. Motion passed and the budget was adopted. Treasurer also distributed a spreadsheet on 2003-3003 Budget and Expenses.
S. Dorn proposed two changes to chapter rules:
“That, when the treasurer reimburses out-of-state travel for union purposes, it does so as if the travel were in state- with one night’s lodging either before or after the event and no airfare or expenses related to airfare. The treasurer may reimburse a traveler for more than the equivalent of in-state expenses with the concurrence of the president and vice president and the prompt notification of the elected chapter officers either through e-mail or at the next chapter meeting, where practicable.”
“That, when the treasurer reimburses herself or himself for expenses, he or she notifies the president and vice president and provides them with copies of the receipts.
Both rules passed.
S. Dorn published the Bi-Weekly, the members email list being worked on.
Discussion of USF’s “Branding.” No motions.
Requests for meetings with administration on bargaining and other UFF concerns pending.
N. Tyson and R. Weatherford are the delegates to NEA-RA; N Tyson is now the contact for the NEA Peace and Justice Committee and for the local Bill of Rights Defense Committee.
Adjournment
Submitted by M. Doherty, Secretary 8-9-2003
UFF USF Chapter Meeting July 25, 2003
In Attendance: N. Tyson, M Doherty, B. Welker, S. Wohlmuth, K. McCook, K. White, S. Dorn, G. McColm, L. Bird, A. Shapiro, S. Permuth, R. Weatherford
Printed agenda adopted.
The chapter agreed to meet on August 8 and 22nd.
Discussion of release time policy. Consensus to leave decision in hands of Chapter President and Bargaining Team.
S. Dorn reported receipt of summer rebate. Regular treasury has $7061.76 balance.
Grievance Chair not present, but there was a report on actions of UFF Steering Committee in regards to arbitrations, and on need for another member to attend upcoming grievance summit meeting.
B. Welker reported only activity on bargaining is upcoming pre-bargaining meeting with university administration.
G. McColm requested input from a member with knowledge of benefits for newsletter articles. Chapter needs to develop expertise in this area.
S. Dorn reported on membership activities at all the new faculty orientations. There may be a UFF get together off campus after the Tampa orientation.
During the “Good of the Order” the Chapter went into executive session until the conclusion of the meeting.
Adjournment
Submitted by M. Doherty, Secretary 8-9-2003
UFF USF Chapter Meeting August 8, 2003
In Attendance: J. Nettleton, B. Welker, G. McColm, S. Greenbaum, J. Cebulski, R. Tyson, M Doherty, S. Wohlmuth, K. White, S. Dorn, R. Russell
S. Dorn chaired meeting. No printed agenda. The following agenda adopted:
Message from Chapter President that the pre-bargaining meeting will take place August 19, 2-4. R. Weatherford, B. Welker, and L. Geiger will represent UFF.
The next newsletter will come out one week before classes. The editor needs input.
Discussion concerning online vs. mail distribution of Bargaining Survey. Dept Reps/Stewards may also hand out. Copies of Bargaining Survey were passed out.
The membership chairs discussed plans for the new faculty orientations at all campuses. Discussion of stewards and definitions of their duties, and need to involve retirees.
Good of Order:
The chapter copier and fax were stolen from the UFF office and will be replaced. Office will be rekeyed. Discussion of shortcomings of present office. Query about the schedule for the BOT’s consideration of the new USF rules.
UFF Senate Meeting Date has been shifted to Sept 20.
Adjournment
Submitted by M. Doherty, Secretary 8-9-2003