This month there is not a lot to say about negotiations. Last month I reported that we thought we had identified a funding source for planning time; unfortunately, it is not so. We have spent a great deal of time and effort on this contract, and I am certain that it will not surprise you to learn that there isnÃt much money to work with, given the budget cuts and all.
In the meantime, the district has borne the increasing expense of benefits, which may not feel like a raise but certainly affected the resources for one. To complicate matters further, the special session called by the Governor to address the state budget shortfall makes it all the more difficult.
As we return to the table, we look forward to closing this contract (2001-2002) so that we can move forward with this year’s contract (2002-2003), which, while not looking rosy, is at least not beating a dead horse.