A fact-finder’s report issued in regard to contract negotiations between The University of Toledo and one of its bargaining units, the American Federation of State, County and Federal Employees (AFSCME), has been rejected by the University’s Board of Trustees.
In a vote of 8-0, the board rejected the recommendations of the fact-finder.
“AFSCME members are valued and important colleagues who are essential to our mission of improving the human condition,” said UT President Lloyd Jacobs.
“We had great hopes that this process would bring us one step closer to bringing these lengthy negotiations to a close,” Jacobs said, following the board’s action. “Unfortunately, we are left with a report that lacks clarity and fails to provide a blueprint to reconcile our differences. We sincerely look forward to continuing the dialogue as we continue to bargain in good faith.
“It is a well-known fact that these are challenging times for hospitals and higher education,” Jacobs added. “Only by putting aside our differences and finding a mutually beneficial agreement can we hope to fulfill our mission of improving the human condition.
“Now more than ever, our patients are seeking the highest quality health care and safety standards,” Jacobs said. “We must arrive at an agreement that enables us to continue forward with our mission of improving the human condition without sacrificing the promise that only university-quality care can deliver.”
The administration and the bargaining unit, which represents approximately 1,800 workers on the University’s Health Science Campus, have been operating without a contract since Sept. 30, 2009.
