General Summary #

The Davison Township Board of Trustees convened a special meeting via Zoom on November 19, 2020. The meeting focused on addressing the necessity and language of Letters of Understanding (LOU) regarding two specific bargaining units represented by the Governmental Employees Labor Unit (GELC): one for salaried personnel (excluding elected officials, the Chief of Police, and the Deputy Chief) and one for non-salaried personnel (excluding part-time, temporary, and seasonal employees).

During the discussion, the board weighed the purpose of these LOUs against previously sent Letters of Recognition, specifically considering whether the LOUs might inadvertently limit the township's leverage during future negotiations. Ultimately, after reviewing updated language that had been agreed upon by the union, the board voted to authorize the signing of the documents.

Key Points #

  • Labor Negotiations: The board reviewed updated language for Letters of Understanding involving the Governmental Employees Labor Council (GELC).
  • Bargaining Concerns: There was deliberation regarding whether these LOUs were necessary since Letters of Recognition had already been issued, and whether such agreements might restrict the township's ability to bargain in the future.
  • Public Comment: There were no public comments during the meeting.

Who #

  • Tim Elkins: Supervisor
  • Cindy Shields: Clerk
  • Pat Miller: Treasurer
  • Matthew Karr: Trustee
  • Travis Howell: Trustee
  • Gouri Sashital: Labor Attorney
  • Lori Tallman: Attendee

What #

  • Decision: The board approved the authorization for the Supervisor to sign Letters of Understanding for both bargaining units.
  • Motion: "to authorize the Supervisor to sign Letters of Understanding for both bargaining units as presented."
    • Moved by: Shields
    • Seconded by: Miller
  • Vote Results: Motion carried.
    • Roll Call: Yes—Shields, Elkins, Karr, Howell, Miller.

When #

  • Meeting Date: November 19, 2020
  • Meeting Time: 11:17 a.m. to 12:07 p.m.

Where #

  • Location: Davison Township Municipal Center, 1280 N. Irish Road, Davison, MI 48423 (Meeting conducted via Zoom).