Contract negotiations began on June 26, 1996. Eighteen months and forty-three sessions later, and we still don't have a contract!
On November 17, 1997, during a schedule negotiation session, the Union indicated to the University a desire to try in earnest to conclude negotiations by the holidays. We followed this up with a serious comprehensive proposal, meant to start the process of "making the deal". On November 24, 1997 Yale University transmitted a comprehensive counter proposal. On December 3, 1997 the Union sent Yale a 'Rejoinder', which included all the issues needed to settle the contract.
On Friday December 5, 1997, Yale sent a letter to Y.P.B.A. President Carlos Perez, essentially demanding that we attend a marathon negotiation session to be held on December 9, 1997 at the Whalley Avenue Holiday Inn. The Union responded in writing to Yale in order to correct several gross inaccuracies in their letter, and to reschedule the meeting for Thursday, December 11, 1997 at 10:00 AM, a time more convenient for us.
The Union team arrived at this meeting ready to negotiate in good faith on all major items, including Long Term Disability, Pension, Healthcare, Bill of Rights, and Wages; to finally settle this contract. Working off of the most recent comprehensive proposals from each side, a list of about sixteen (16) items was formed. Early in the day, it appeared that we were on our way to negotiating a tentative agreement. But with each return from caucus, it was apparent that Yale was not prepared to negotiate on the major issues. The Union had pared down the issues to the essential elements needed to bring back a contract for ratification. Yale, on the other hand, refused to change their proposals, trying to push us into a seven year contract ( a ridiculously long contract); and wanted us to sell out our members futures. The Y.P.B.A. team held fast, and said NO! We informed Yale that when they are ready to negotiate the major components of a POLICE CONTRACT, we would be available. The meeting ended at 8:30 PM.
We have not come this far, and worked this hard, to exchange our futures for a quick settlement. Yale is well aware of what it will take to make the 'DEAL'. What we are seeking in Pension, Disability, and Bill of Rights is not outrageous. Indeed, in comparison to any other police department, our proposals are on the low end of the benefits scale. We will keep you informed of any changes or developments, but it appears that negotiations have ended for the Holiday Season.
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