Support for PBA of New York State Continues to Grow

Thursday, June 09, 2011

SUNY and Park Police; EnCon Officers; and Forest Rangers Supplement Filing to Break From Council 82

The Police Benevolent Association of New York State (PBA of New York  State), a member-focused coalition of police officers representing the interests of approximately 1,200 members of the state agency law enforcement services (ALES) unit policing New York State’s public universities and colleges; state parks and historic sites; and enforcing state law as environmental conservation officers and forest rangers today announced that they have supplemented its filing with the Public Employees Relations Board (PERB) calling for authorization of the PBA of New York State to act on their behalf on matters ranging from contract negotiations to legislative affairs to local management grievances.

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On June 6, PBA of New York State added an additional 191 signature cards to its original May 6 filing.  Combined, these filings now total 791. PERB rules stipulate that it will sanction a new election upon receipt of written acknowledgement by at least 30 percent of the ALES unit requesting a change in union control.

“State University and Park Police; Environmental Conservation Officers and Forest Rangers are ready to take control of their future,” PBA of New York State President Manuel Vilar said.  “The PBA of New York State is going to seek a timely decertification vote.  It wants to move forward on behalf of all of its potential members to ensure representation built upon credibility, stability and long-term security.”

“Membership support for the PBA of New York State continues to gather momentum, and strength,” PBA of New York State Executive Director Dan De Federicis said. “In a four week period an overwhelming majority of the police officers have made it clear that they are seeking fresh, member oriented leadership.  Such a significant demonstration of supports shows that all across the state members are far more than dissatisfied, they are actively engaged and prepared to exercise their independence.”

The ALES unit has been working without a contract since 2005.  Last month, the unit rejected a long-term state contract proposal negotiated by Council 82 after failing to include or involve the unit’s negotiations committee in the process.  Council 82 is presently led by James Lyman and Christian Mesley; both have long ties to the Albany Police Department (APD).  Lyman is retired from the force; and Mesley is a member of APD.