SENA Local 9158 wishes to extend congratulations to the members of the Boston City Council for their action in working with Fire Fighters Local 718 along with initiating the City back to bargaining table.  In particular, SENA wishes to commend City Council President and former SENA member Michael Ross.  Councillor Ross took one of the most high profile and divisive issues facing this City in a very long time and working alongside Chairman of Labor Councillor Felix Arroyo, Councillor John Tobin, Councillor Sal Lamattina and another former SENA member Councillor Bill Linehan worked tirelessly until both sides reached a mutually beneficial settlement. Council President Ross should be commended by both sides along with the residents of this city for his efforts and leadership on this issue.  

To our members, our union was front and center on this issue.  As shown by these hearings, binding arbitration is the fairest, most balanced and most neutral process for unions and municipalities to settle contractual differences. We are hopeful that down the line this collective bargaining benefit is also afforded to all civilian unions throughout the city. 

As all are aware SENA prevailed in the arbitration decision involving a number of BCYF members denied the twenty rule rule.  The award has been challenged by the City and is heading to court.  Our law firm is confident that this award, currently standing at approximately $400,000 will be upheld by the courts and eventually make its way to those affected by the denial.  We have also asked the court to assess interest and attorney fees on top of the approximately $400,000 award.  Local 9158 stands firmly behind the arbitrators decision and will see this issue to a successful conclusion.