Binding arbitration is an arcane subject, but it means something
to every Gilroy resident. In the long term it’s the difference
between having a solvent city that can deliver services like street
sweeping and recreation programs or one that’s about to go belly up
because all the money is going to overly generous retirement
benefits for public safety personnel.
Binding arbitration is an arcane subject, but it means something to every Gilroy resident. In the long term it’s the difference between having a solvent city that can deliver services like street sweeping and recreation programs or one that’s about to go belly up because all the money is going to overly generous retirement benefits for public safety personnel.
As a citywide issue, though, it’s no picnic: Who wants to be “against” the police officers and firefighters that we respect, admire and need in circumstances that can be most difficult?
Nobody.
That’s why we’re especially encouraged that the Gilroy City Council is taking on the unpopular issue of binding arbitration, especially in a Council election year.
The debate is not only necessary, it’s one that is taking political courage.
Advocating for the removal of binding arbitration is truly not a matter of being “against” our honorable firefighters and police officers, it’s about being “for” all Gilroyans.
Gilroyans do not deserve to be overburdened with a section of the city charter that gives firefighter and police unions the right to have an outside arbitrator decide what the compensation package should be for our city’s public safety personnel.
That’s the City Council’s job. That’s why we elect them.
So, it’s heartening to witness, for example, Councilman Roland Velasco’s elegantly crafted compromise on the issue that he unveiled at a recent council retreat. Velasco proposes keeping binding arbitration in the city charter, but adding a section that gives Gilroy voters the right to reject an arbitrator’s decision at the ballot box.
It’s a thoughtful effort, but it’s off the mark.
The crushing financial spectre of early retirements with health benefits for life make the situation clear. The Council must stand up for what is good for all Gilroyans. That means mustering the political courage to say collectively that binding arbitration is not healthy for our city and putting the proposal to rescind it from the charter before Gilroy voters.
Compensation for firefighters and police must be balanced with other city needs – whether it’s sidewalk repairs, salaries for other city employees, sports park facilities or recreation programs.
Mayor Al Pinheiro is right on target. In an exemplary testament to his leadership and character, he has not taken the easy way out.
It’s our sincere hope that other councilmen will join him. Binding arbitration is an albatross around the neck of our city. It must be removed.
