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Sept. 17, 2010 Complete Victory for Local 700 in Oak Forest Insurance Battle An arbitrator, in regard to an insurance grievance filed by the union, completely denied the City of Oak Forest's request for any offset in healthcare premiums and contributions. Oak Forest, without the knowledge of the union, changed the health insurance plan in several bargaining agreements. This modification was to the detriment of many employees, which Teamsters Local 726, at the time, represented. After the dissolution of Local 726 and Local 714 and the creation of Local 700, the union's legal team took over the case. Local 700 continued the case on behalf of Local 700-represented clerks and public works employees as well as former Local 726 members. The union knew the fight was worth it in the long run. "The premium cost for the new healthcare plan was less than the cost for the old healthcare plan," said Local 700 Assistant Trustee William P. Logan. "Therefore, the City claimed that the cost savings experienced by employees should be deducted from the increased out-of-pocket expenses caused by the increased prescription drug co-pays, the creation and initiation of new co-pays as well as increased deductibles," said Logan. "This is ridiculous because they're failing to recognize how the plan disadvantaged employees." "Benefits were significantly reduced. This reduction in benefits is the main reason why the new plan saved the City $80,000," said Local 700 Assistant Trustee Becky Strzechowski. "So we're glad the arbitrator stuck to his guns and followed through on what is only fair to our members," Strzechowski said. "There is also a companion case in the Circuit Court of Cook County that I expect will continue in light of this supplemental award. We will keep our members informed of the case's status as it progresses." |
William P. Logan, President 1300 W. Higgins Rd. Suite 301 CONTACT YOUR STATE LEGISLATOR: UPCOMING EVENTS Monday, May 28 Wednesday, July 4 Saturday, August 4 |
