The University of Iowa and AFSCME Local 12

Labor Management Committee Meeting

Present: David Bergeon, Deb Conger, Laurie Hathaway, Suzanne Hilleman, Joe Marron, Jim Schepker, John Stellmach, Todd Taylor, Kevin Ward

Early Retirement Update:

Kevin Ward gave an update on the numbers for early retirement. The majority of denials for merit staff have been because they did not generate sufficient savings above the cost of the benefits.

Employment Status	Applicants	Approved	Denied
Faculty	31	13	8
P&S	183	72	41
SEIU	76	1	4
Merit exempt	51	16	12
AFSCME	283	74	35
Total	624	176	100

Planning for 10% State Budget Cut:

Kevin Ward used pie charts available through the budget website to review the make-up of the General Education Fund, as it is impacted by the 10% cut in state funding. He also discussed the direction of the Board of Regents to the institutions for developing plans for the October Regents meeting. He also noted the plans discussed with Council 61 to address UI Healthcare budget issues, including flexible staffing, temporary layoffs and layoffs. Action is pending on these proposals.

H1N1 Update and Employee Absences (AFSCME):

The group discussed the communication to employees not to come to work if experiencing flu like symptoms. It was suggested that this be forwarded to employees without regular computer access.

Research Subject Solicitations:

Time Clock System (AFSCME):

Pilot projects are underway for the implementation of ELMS, the new time and attendance system being install at the hospital. A concern was raised about rounding. This and other bugs are being worked out. It was also suggested to discuss with employees if this system will change any expectations regarding attendance. David Bergeon noted that there is information on “The Point”, the hospital intranet site, available to hospital staff.

Breaks and Lunch Periods:

Concerns were raised about the lack of breaks in certain areas due to the lack of qualified relief. The union asks that these be addressed so that staff can receive breaks as outlined in the contract. They noted Jim Hanks comments from bargaining that the lack of relief was not an excuse on a daily basis. Supervisors and employees can share responsibility for arranging for qualified relief to promote better quality work and wellness.

Miscellaneous:

The posting of vacancies at 90% at UI Healthcare was noted.
A question was raised regarding a decline in the number of merit staff in relation to professional and scientific staff in recent years. Kevin Ward noted changes in the nature of work performed and the growth in the number of research contracts, which primarily support professional jobs.
Concern was expressed about a new practice of asking clinic clerks to solicit patients for donations to the foundation, and how this would reflect on the performance of merit staff.

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