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Public Employee Press
Grievance wins back pay, upgrading
Some things are supposed to happen like clockwork. When
they dont, its time to take action. In January 2003, when
the date for Renee Fentons 12-year title upgrade and recurring increment
payment came and went without any additional money or a title change,
she consulted her union.
A member of Clerical-Administrative Employees Local 1549, she contacted
Assistant Clerical Division Director Eddie Gates and Grievance Rep Pilar
Oquendo.
In January 2005, Ms. Fenton got the first RIP check and an upgrade from
Clerical Associate Ia to Clerical Associate II.
Her retroactive payment represents a huge boost for the working mother
of two. Im elated! she said. The union is fantastic.
Every time I saw Ms. Oquendo, she told me to hold on and I did.
Ms. Oquendo is also happy. This grievance shows that membership
in Local 1549 is priceless, she said.
Clerical Division Director Ronnie Harris said members should notify
the union as soon as possible when something is amiss.
Ms. Fenton celebrated her victory by cooking a meal to share with her
fellow employees. After a long day at the Jamaica Food Stamp Centers
Control Unit, she went home and baked chicken, peas and rice, meatloaf,
string beans and salad. Were like a family here, a happy family,
she said.
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