We met in a zoom Labor/Management meeting 5/13 and had a very frank discussion of maintaining operations while ensuring safety during this pandemic. We will commence Inters Based Bargaining, June 22/23 and hope to get an initial zoom bargaining session in before the July 4 break followed by more sessions in July.
BFC: we had a zoom meeting today for 6 of 8 stewards for an hour. We agreed to postpone bargaining to start in July with a target date to conclude in late September. We will extend the CBA with the employer. We had confirmation of the first reduction in hours for selected Job descriptions but they are being offered work in other areas of the co-op. Membership today received the initial $2/hr increase negotiated with the employer.
BFC: Tomorrow will announce $2/hr “Hero Pay.” This is week to week as their financial situation is worrisome.
BFC. They have reduced hours, implemented curbside pick up. Trying to do a Vermont version of Work share by reducing hours, pooling the work, and applying for partial Unemployment Assistance for the lost hours.