Firefighters’ union concerned with law

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By Matt Sanctis, Staff Writer 10:43 PM Wednesday, September 21, 2011

URBANA — As the public debates the merits and flaws of Issue 2, an Urbana firefighter questioned whether the law is even necessary.

Jason Croker, president of the Urbana Firefighters Local 1823, said the outcome of the vote this fall will have a significant impact on public workers. But in Urbana, he said firefighters and city administrators have fared well under the state’s current collective bargaining laws, calling into question if a change is needed.

“I look at it as a knee-jerk reaction to a bad economy,” Croker said.

In November, voters will decide whether the controversial law will take effect. Among the changes, the law would eliminate binding arbitration to settle contract disputes for safety forces and set minimums public employees must pay for health insurance and pensions.

He noted that despite occasional differences of opinion, firefighters and city officials have successfully negotiated numerous contracts under the state’s current collective bargaining laws.

“Throughout our ups and downs, we have had a good working relationship with the city,” he said.

The new law, if passed, would create more uncertainty, he said.

Under the current law, if there is an impasse in negotiations, an independent mediator reviews the facts of a case and issues a binding decision. The new law would eliminate binding arbitration and provide significantly more leverage to local government officials.

Croker is concerned the law could limit the ability to negotiate issues related to safety equipment, staffing and training.

Croker said the union’s good relationship with the city would make that less of a concern locally, but statewide there is potential for cuts that may impact safety.

Regardless of whether residents support or oppose the law, he said it is important they take the time to understand its potential implications.

“The lasting impact of this is huge,” Croker said.

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