"UC police officers do a tremendous job for the entire university community and we're very happy to have reached an agreement that we believe recognizes their quality service and their commitment to UC and its people" said Dwaine B. Duckett, vice president for systemwide human resources.
These were "re-opener" negotiations, limited to compensation and benefits issues. Highlights of the agreement include:
- Wages: Given the university's current budget environment, there will be no across-the-board wage increases over the next two years, and merit increases over the term of the contract will be suspended. Longevity increases will be suspended from September 1, 2009 through June 30, 2010. The suspension of step and longevity increases results in total savings to the university of more than $800,000.
- Benefits: The contract provides UC police officers the same attractive health and retirement benefits as other UC employees;
- Furloughs: Officers will not be furloughed as a cost-saving measure related to the university's recently adopted systemwide furlough/salary reduction plan;
Additionally, it was agreed there will be no additional re-opener negotiations for the next two years.
UC officials said contract talks were concluded expeditiously due to the collaborative approach and good will that both sides brought to the negotiations.
"We greatly appreciate the professionalism, sense of shared sacrifice and partnership that union leaders brought to these negotiations," said Linda Ashcraft, UC's chief negotiator. "They are to be commended for recognizing the severe economic challenges confronting the university, and for their willingness to work collaboratively with us to reach a resolution that supports each UC campus in obtaining their respective cost cutting goals while assuring that public safety will be maintained -- that kind of cooperation and partnership makes a big difference."
The new contract, which has been ratified by union members, will be in effect until June 30, 2011.