Unresolved Contract Frustrates Collier Residents

Collier's Public Works employees and their supporters spoke out at the township board meeting on Wednesday as the workers' union is

The public works employees say they have not had a pay raise since 2008 and want a cost-of-living-adjustment to keep up with inflation. say they can no longer afford health care expenses and want the employees to start contributing.

Commissioner Bob Schuler said the township is concerned about rising costs to benefits for all workers.

“It’s just a fact of life," he said. "Everyone is paying more for healthcare.”

He tried to cite an example from his family, but the very vocal crowd supporting the public works employees booed him.

Gary Alward, an official with Local 249 that represents the workers, . He continued to hammer the board about the lack of progress.

There was resounding applause for Alward’s speech from a crowd of union supporters. Eleven township residents spoke on behalf of the workers and Local 249.

“Take care of these people," Burt Caplan said. "They take care of us.”

Others praised the public workers for their hard work as the township has increased in size while the workforce has decreased.

“Twenty years ago, the township had 13 public works employees, currently they have nine," Mary Ann Manco said. "There are more roads to take care of then there were twenty years ago. Give them their due. Give them what they deserve.”

After the public comments portion of the meeting, most of the supporters and the public works employees left the meeting. The Board of Commissioners resumed their normal meeting without comment.

Also during the meeting...

• The Board of Commissioners approved the appointment of Marc Kania to the Parks & Recreation Department.

• The Board approved the transfer of a liquor license from All Star Enterprises to Mike and Tony's of South Side, Inc. so they can open up a location at Great Southern Shopping Center.

• The Board of Commissioners also approved a request of Chief Thomas Devin, to enter the DROP Pension Program with an effective date of Aug. 1, as per contract language.

• The Board approved of a the purchase and installation of an awning for the entrance walkway of the Nike Site Community Center from Ancur Design & Supply Inc., in the amount of $9,875.00.

• The Board approved and authorized payment for several local projects, such as storm drain replacement on Dorothy Street, Penn State Justice & Safety training for Sgt. Davis, sewer and storm improvements, etc.