Local 203

New York State
Department of Public Service

General Meeting Albany
December 9, 2003

Doug Jasinske, Secretary-Treasurer

Meeting called to order at 12:05 p.m.

Doug reported that there was $3,669.55 in the Treasury.

Doug read the minutes from the 12/8 Delmar Gen. Meeting.

Steve Glor drew the scholarship winners:

• Lena Eson, daughter of Jud;
• James Wheeler, son of Dan;
• Charelle Carter, daughter of Pam.

Each was awarded $300 for our Annual Local Scholarship.

There was discussion on the floor about whether we should continue annual Scholarships or provide secondary rebates to membership (2 rebates at $10 vs current rebate of 1 @ $10 per member per year) for Dept functions such as Picnic, Holiday Party, Weight Watchers at Work; Golf. Members expressed concerns about PEF's inability to provide notice re: scholarships, etc over State system of Lotus Notes in Department. Sandy advised that bulletin boards are available on every other floor. Mike Salony volunteered to be Webmaster if Local obtains website. Doug will contact PEF Headquarters to inquire about Locals' ability to provide news on PEF website.

It was decided that Treasurer will provide copy of Annual Budget report at next Gen Membership meeting to vote on future of Scholarships/Rebates.

Meeting adjourned at 12:40 p.m.

General Meeting, Delmar
December 8, 2003

Doug Jasinske, Secretary-Treasurer

Meeting was called to order at 1:10 p.m.

Doug read minutes from previous meeting.

Doug reported $4,562.05 in treasury.

Ron reported about Contract Negotiations progress. Advised that PEF issued its demands. Health Benefits/Salaries are main issues. Roger Benson's position is "take this or leave it". Counter offer due soon. E-Board must ratify before members vote and then sent to Legislators for approval so lengthy process remains ahead. Ron referred members to PEF website: www.pef.org for updates. PEF is asking for retroactive wage increase as well as increase for each year of the new contract and no significant health care reductions. PEF is also requesting improved eye care and dental plans.

Pam Carter asked if tuition assistance will be reinstated and Ron said it is being considered on a prospective basis.

Martin Insogna asked that Ron review with us what PEF's concessions are. Ron stated that job security remains an outstanding issue.

Nancy Plotkin questioned the language of co-payments, in particular - why is the co-pay amount the same for a doctor as it is for a nurse practitioner? Ron responded that this works to our advantage.

Ron stated that for the first time PEF is setting the pattern before CSEA and this is preferable.

Annual Scholarship to be drawn at 12/9/03 General Membership Meeting in Albany

Sandy, Ron and Doug advised Delmar members that more stewards are needed for the Albany location.

Ron urged members to assist PEF by helping out and participating in rallies, demonstrations, e-mails, write-ins and calls to legislators.

Meeting adjourned at 1:35 p.m.