Minutes

LOS ANGELES CITY ATTORNEYS ASSOCIATION
BOARD MEETING MINUTES

Meeting Date:   April 5, 2007

Board Members Present: Shelley Smith (President), Bob Cramer (Vice-President), Michael Duran (Vice-President), Jule Bishop (Treasurer),Judith Reel (Secretary), Garcelle Embry (Civil Director), Phil Sugar (Civil Director), Rosemary Chavez (Criminal Director), Eugene Hall (Criminal Director)

SEIU Local 347 Representative Present:  Bob Hunt (General Counsel)

I.            Old Business

A.            M.O.U. Negotiations

Bob Hunt reported on the continued efforts by a coalition of city unions, including AFSCME, to coordinate a bargaining strategy for the Spring M.O.U. negotiations.  The unions in the coalition represent approximately 20,000 civilian City employees whose M.O.U.s expire on June 30, 2007.  The coalition continues to meet regularly and is working towards presenting a united front regarding basic economic issues, i.e., cost of living increases, pension adjustments, and benefits. Bob Hunt reported that the Mayor gave a budget presentation in which he presented a gloomy budget forecast for the City and pledged to hold the line on salaries.   Based on the Association’s surveys and discussion with our members, the Board believes that our members expect significant economic gains.  These  circumstances could lead to contentious negotiations.

The Board discussed what information to request from management prior to starting negotiations, and Bob Hunt agreed to send a letter with that request. The Board also certified its bargaining team for the negotiations.  The M.O.U. authorizes the Association to have five members serve as its M.O.U. bargaining team, and the Board voted to have Board officers (since they are elected by the entire membership) serve on the bargaining team.  Vice-President Bob Cramer announced that he will retire in May and so the Board voted to have Civil Director Garcelle Embry also serve on the team.  Accordingly, the Association will be represented in negotiations by Shelley Smith, Michael Duran, Jule Bishop, Judy Reel, and Garcelle Embry.  Bob Hunt will also participate on behalf of the Association.

II.            New Business                       

A.            PRP Results

The Board requested from management and received a list identifying all awards made during the recent PRP process.  Members wanting a copy of the list may obtain one from a Board member.  Board members welcome comments and analysis of the process and results.

B.     Treasurer’s Report 

Board Treasurer Jule Bishop presented the annual report re: Association finances for 2006.  Board members discussed the need for prudent oversight of Board assets, and the ability of the Association to maintain reserves to advance our members’ interests in negotiations and to address any political threats.  During the discussion it was noted that Association members pay dues in the amount of .4% of income, which is significantly lower than other city employees, who pay a minimum of 1% of salary, and many of whom pay a higher percentage.

C.     Executive Session

The Board met in Executive Session to discuss a member request for assistance in asserting a claim against management.

 

 

As you know, our new MOU includes annual reimbursement for MCLE-related expenses. To ensure that you receive complete and timely reimbursement, we encourage you to follow the instructions contained in the MCLE protocol provided by City Attorney Management. You must complete and submit a reimbursement form in order to receive reimbursement.

You can reimburse expenses related to attending MCLE programs that are accepted by the California State Bar, even if the program takes place in another state. Eligible expenses include the cost of the program, travel, and per diems.

Please be judicious when choosing lodging and which food/drink expenses you submit for reimbursement.

The Board is pleased to announce that LACAA has retained the law firm of MASTAGNI, HOLSTEDT, AMICK, MILLER & JOHNSEN as General Counsel.