Public Employee Press

No layoffs coming in Coler-Goldwater move

DC 37 held a special informational meeting at Coler-Goldwater Hospital on Roosevelt Island Dec. 16 to address members' concerns after the Health and Hospitals Corp. announced plans to relocate patients and workers during capital improvement projects at the long-term care facility.

"As this hospital undergoes positive change so it can meet state health codes and regulations, the union supports you," said Executive Director Lillian Roberts. "We will not allow any change that could potentially hurt members."

Quashing widespread rumors, she added, "We assure you there are no layoffs in this process. You will be moved to a new facility at North General in Harlem until the renovations are complete and these buildings are brought up to code."

The meeting included members of Locals 299, 420, 768 and 1549, Local 768 President Fitz Reid and union staff. DC 37 Hospitals Division Director Audrey McConney chaired sessions that included presentations on union education, legal and housing services.

"Over the next four years, HHC will complete capital improvements on this 60-year-old facility and relocate long-term care patients to North General Hospital, a newer 300-bed facility in Harlem," said DC 37 Field Operations Director Barbara Edmonds. The Coler-Goldwater facility has not been renovated in decades, and the union is cooperating with HHC's plan to update rooms to meet state regulations. Part of the plan may include eventually phasing out the East River facility.

Edmonds said the move to North General may increase promotional opportunities for employees and increase HHC's revenue from the state. "Changes come with challenges and opportunities," she said. "Your union is calling on you to be active and involved."

"There will be changes, positive changes, and we are here to make sure your rights are always protected," Roberts said.