Sisters and Brothers,
Many members who do case management work with the developmentally disabled recently received letters from Mary Anne Lindeblad that were extremely upsetting. Management, in a move that some would label a sneak attack, sent letters announcing intent to contract out work that were worded in such a way that many who received it believed they needed to look for other work right away.
A number of members who currently work with Provider One will receive letters of intent as well. We were told about that just today.
Our union has filed demands to bargain on both contract out issues. The initial letter signed by Mary Anne Lindeblad will be rescinded. However, another will be sent to replace the first one. We had no knowledge that those letters were being sent. We were as shocked by the content as you were.
You deserve thanks and praise for the work that you do. You have provided quality services through mandatory furloughs, wage reductions, short staffing, and you never let our disabled citizens down. I am so proud of you. There is no workforce like the one that works for this state. Shame on these insensitive supposed to be managers who think that this is how human relations is supposed to work.
Your phone calls and messages to the Governor, the administration, and to us are justified and appreciated. Our staff and officers are taking action on these events. We will meet with management Monday to discuss the impact the initial letter and lack of communication has had on the workforce. The demands to bargain will move forward and we will assess what other actions may be taken.
Whether or not management ever apologizes to you - I will. I had no idea management would send such a piece to your homes. It hurt my heart to know how upset you have been and it angers me. An injury to one is an injury to all. This is injury.
Tim Welch will continue to do the great work he does with the hotline to keep you informed about what is happening so be sure to stay updated by reading it as it comes out. Please continue to communicate with us. We need eyes and ears to the ground.
