On November 2, 2009, Local 509 and NAGE were pleased to hold a joint lunch time meeting at the Salem DOR office to update employees there on the progress of our health assessment of their office.

Dr. Oliver, our medical expert, and Attorney Milne, who is handling our overall effort, were present to address employees and answer questions on the process.  Dr. Oliver passed out health surveys to be completed and returned later in the week.  She will use data obtained from these along with other facts she has collected to help assess the health risk of being located in this mixed use facility. 

Attorney Al Gordon is working closely with us on issues regarding inquiries and discipline related to DoR's confidentially policy.   Attorney Gordon was a speaker at our rescheduled January chapter board meeting (a first for the chapter in that members could participate via teleconferencing). Attorney Gordon emphasized that, if you are the subject of an investigation, you should always seek union representation to accompany you.  When at the inquiry, be sure you understand the question, think before you answer, and answer only the question asked with a brief honest reply.

The Chapter has had several meetings with management regarding its disciplinary policy, unfortunately we have been unable to reach agreement and we have filed Unfair Labor Practice charges regarding this issue.

Please be assured the Local is doing everything possible to try and protect its members.

Anyone experiencing contract related problems should contact a steward or chapter board member.  Never go alone to an investigatory or disciplinary meeting.



Remember: Despite the work demands placed upon us, our contract specifies a 37.5 hour work week.  With our case load size and extra projects, it is impossible to accomplish everything.  We have repeatedly requested that overtime be made available, only to have management deny this need.  The bottom line is if it can not be done in your scheduled work week, leave it.