Weyburn Mayor Debra Button stated recently that the Weyburn Police Association (WPA) request for a 24 per cent wage increase is excessive and that the City is standing firm with its latest offer.
"I think it's regrettable that we have ended up negotiating in the media. However, this does not change my position. My job is to think about the future and make sure we have the courage and discipline to continue to live within our means," said Button.
The City's last offer to the WPA was an 11 per cent increase over three years.
"The WPA delivers a very important job for the people of Weyburn. The same is true for all the men and women who serve our City in many different ways. Our job in City government is to ensure they are fairly rewarded for their service in a way that is fiscally responsible and provides fiscal stability to the taxpayers of Weyburn," said Button.
The Board of Police Commissions met Friday to consider the WPA request to go to binding arbitration. The Board voted against arbitration, feeling that the best resolution could be achieved through discussion at the bargaining table.
"In the bigger picture we are all on the same team - the police, the City, the taxpayers. We all believe in our city and we all want to treat each other fairly. I am confident that, through good faith and further discussion, a resolution can be found." However, in saying this, the City has contingencies in place with the RCMP to ensure proper police coverage is maintained and public safety remains paramount in the event of a strike.
In accordance with the Public Service Essential Services Act, the City has provided the Weyburn Police Association with a list of the services and members that the Board has deemed to be essential.
