Union Dues Increase: The Executive Board manages Union affairs and has recommended a ½ % increase in Union dues. It takes courage to raise taxes and Union dues. This increase will be voted on in the October cycle of Union meetings. (The change has been posted on the Union BB). Because it is a change to the By-laws, it will require a 2/3s vote to become effective. If you have an interest in Union dues, you are welcome to participate and vote.

Introducing the “Non-Chargeable” accident: Safety is of extreme concern to Pierce Transit, therefore, we appreciate their removing discipline from a category of accidents formerly known as preventable deferred. It was the Union’s position that operating a coach is increasingly more stressful and lessening discipline would help relieve this stress by keeping Operators further away from the discipline process. You are doing a great job and this is a gentle thank you!

Oil changes for vans: Many months ago we mentioned that Pierce Transit was considering contracting out oil changes. The Union facilitated a meeting between the van shop and management. The exchange of ideas helped Pierce Transit find a way to continue oil changes in house. We appreciate PT’s openness to receive our suggestions.

Jack Oakes suggested a water dispenser for 10th & Commerce. Both Ken Bailey and Larry Cline will help shepherd his suggestion through next year’s budget. Ruth Moore will try to get an ice machine added by the vendors. We thank all for their efforts. I take my hat off to you, Jack!

Our day of paid downtown reliefs with relief cars has arrived, 17 years after our base moved to 96th Street. Hallelujah! Transit understood that it was a source of irritation to operators and so worked with us during the Hybrid (Bus Plus) negotiations to remove it.

PT continues to work toward cup holders in the buses. As Kevin Desmond put it, “We recognize that the bus is the Operator’s office.” (The cup holders will not accommodate extra large cups and we committed to not complain). Final placement and approval will lie with the bus specification committee (Margaret Barnes, Lane Chase, and Ed McCue).

Operator interest in 4-10 shifts has received overwhelming support from our survey. Our Alternate Work Committee (Roylene Vincent, Larry Dahlin, Lane Chase, and Isaac Tate) will now meet with Pierce Transit.

Supplemental Insurance information has been distributed and people have been making appointments. Be aware that insurance companies make a profit and encourage joining, so buyer beware, however people who use it appreciate it. You may cancel insurance any month and will have opportunities to join twice a year.

The Vodrup’s hosted a delightful picnic in Longview. Their son contributed a salmon that he caught. Wind and cloud cover did not prevent kids from enjoying the swimming pool. Thank you to all.

All these changes should make your job fuller and more enjoyable. If we keep removing the irritations, we will move in that direction. The cumulative affect of improvement can only be positive.

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