CSEA asks Town of Brighton, "Show Some Respect"

CSEA Monroe County Local 828 President Bess Watts addresses the Brighton Town Board January 28, 2015. All photos Lynn Miller, ©2015

Brighton, NY-- On January 28, CSEA Monroe County activists showed up in force to the Brighton Town Hall meeting to shed some much needed “public light” on the current state of affairs regarding contract negotiations between town employees and town officials.

Local 828 President Bess Watts directly asked town board members and the Town Supervisor to please consider our contract proposals and negotiate a fair contract that recognizes the importance of the vital services we provide the residents of the Brighton community.

Here are the remarks by Watts:

Good evening, my name is Bess Watts; I live at 3 Rossmore Street in Gates, NY.  I am here tonight as President of CSEA Local 828 Monroe County.   Our local represents 3,200 union members in 21 units throughout the county including our hard working members in the Town of Brighton.  I’d like to thank you, Supervisor Moehle and town board members, for giving me this opportunity to speak.

I know you would agree that in Brighton during a cold and snowy winter, that quick and efficient snow removal is essential for public safety?

When a heavy thunderstorm rips through the area, you would agree that clearing roads of downed trees and implementing flood control measures is necessary to protect people and property.
And you would agree that leaf pick-up, brush removal and the filling of pot holes are important to both safety and quality of life.

These are just a few of the many services Brighton residents receive and take for granted every single day from our CSEA Town of Brighton workers. This is what makes Brighton “the best.”

We provide the best services in a town with the best schools, the best neighborhoods and the best quality of life. We are seeking a fair contract that recognizes the importance of the work we do and our contribution to the best of Brighton.

For a year now, Brighton workers represented by CSEA have been working without a contract. They come to work every day and work hard for the people of this town. They are dedicated to doing the best they can for residents yet they feel as if they are largely being ignored.  During negotiations, CSEA made many contract proposals but most have not been considered by the town.

Contract talks are currently in fact-finding, but that does not mean we cannot come to the table and negotiate. We’re calling on the town to consider our proposals and work with us to reach an agreement that is best for both the workers and the town. CSEA members are committed, proud and dedicated to serving the residents of this town. If town officials bring that same commitment and dedication to the negotiating table a fair agreement should be within reach. We hope to be able to meet with you again soon. Thank you for listening.