Second reading given to AFSCME pact

 

In a specially called meeting, the Ironton City Council Wednesday gave first reading to a new contract with the Fraternal Order of Police Local 75 and second reading to an agreement with the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Local 771.

The absence of two council members left only five in attendance, meaning the rules could not be suspended and either matter given the three readings required for passage. Council member Dave Frazer was at a doctor’s appointment out of town and fellow member Beth Rist also did not attend.

Council Chairman Mike Lutz called two more special meetings, one for 5:30 p.m. today and another for 5:30 p.m. Friday to allow for the required number of readings.

Both contracts call for police and public works meet the council-mandated seven-and-a-half percent budget cut by not returning laid off employees to their jobs. AFSCME has six employees laid off; there are two police officers laid off. The firefighters union chose to cut the department food budget and each employee’s clothing allowance to make its budget cut.

Council meets on the third floor of the Ironton City Center.