Labor Relations: The Meet and Confer Process



Budget data.

 Proposed goals (i.e., management’s proposed issues).



Proposed goals of union, if known.

 Proposed upper authority for total compensation package.

 Proposed positions on key non-economic policy issues.

Establish Communication Procedures to be Followed During Negotiations



With Governing Body.



With CAO and key managers.



With agency management and supervisors.



Question of factual negotiation bulletins to employees.

 With the bargaining team members in regards to communication while sitting at the table.

Initial Meeting



Create constructive, friendly, professional atmosphere.



Introductions.

 Basis for rapport between chief negotiators.



Discuss negotiating procedures (ground rules).



Meeting schedules, location.

 No “docking” of pay for reasonable number of employees during normal working hours (“release” time).



Exchange of proposals?



In writing?



Tentative agreement procedure.



In writing?



In contract language form?



Union negotiating team authority?

 Confidentiality until agreement or impasse?

 Union communications to unit employees?

 Union communications to Governing Body, media?



Union team recommendation?



Ratification procedure?

 Submission of MOU to Governing Body.

Labor Relations: The Meet and Confer Process ©2019 (s) Liebert Cassidy Whitmore 56