Brothers and Sisters,
I want to take a moment to address concerns that have recently surfaced regarding members attending specialty-related training while on a current specialist eligibility list.
Your Executive Board firmly believes that members should be supported and appropriately compensated for off-duty training that enhances their skills and benefits the department. While we recognize that achieving meaningful progress in this area may be challenging, we remain committed to advocating for improved support and fair consistent treatment for our members.
We are actively engaged in discussions with administration regarding staffing coverage and support for members attending introductory specialty courses prior to appointment into a specialist position. Over the past several years, it has become increasingly common for members to attend these classes before being selected for specialty assignments. Unfortunately, department support in the form of staffing coverage and overtime compensation has been inconsistent.
This issue is scheduled for discussion at next week’s Labor-Management meeting, where we intend to have a thorough conversation with administration and work toward a more consistent and equitable approach.
Until those discussions take place, we are asking members to refrain from attending specialty-related classes on their own time if such classes would be provided or compensated after appointment to a specialist assignment.
We understand this request may require patience and flexibility, but a unified approach will strengthen our ability to advocate for a fair and consistent process moving forward.
If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to your Shop Steward or a member of the Executive Board.
In Service,
Tyler Eliason
L1352 President
