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SCHENECTADY
Unions consider city contract deal
2 of 3 groups appear open to plan to save on insurance
BY KATHLEEN MOORE Gazette Reporter

    Schenectady’s unions are considering an unprecedented mid-term contract change as Mayor Brian U. Stratton warns of massive layoffs. The city has asked every union to approve a health insurance consolidation that could save the city money while not costing employees more.
The goal is to get down to a sole provider, with which the city could negotiate a better rate with its increased buying power. But the city can’t do that unless every union agrees to accept the same health provider.
    Making matters more diffi cult, the city wants the unions to agree within weeks. That would allow the city to start saving money in the last quarter of the year, rather than waiting until next year.
    So far, the proposal has gotten a positive reaction from two of the city’s three largest unions.
    “We’re being cautious, but we’re optimistically cautious,” said David Orr, president of the fi refi ghters’ union.
    CSEA President Jim Nevins said his union is open to the idea as well.
    CSEA insurance experts have agreed with the city’s claim that workers won’t pay more — and might even pay less on copays and prescription drugs, Nevins said.
    The big question now is whether the police union will be willing to consider the idea. PBA President Robert Hamilton did not return a call seeking comment, but the city just concluded a four-year effort to negotiate a new contract with the police. This deal was not included in that contract.
    Nevins did not mention the po- lice union by name, but warned that other unions could stop the process in its tracks.
    “Everything hinges on all the other unions,” he said. “It could all be blown out of the water by the other unions.” .........................>>>>......................>>>>.......................http://www.dailygazette.net/De.....r00901&AppName=1