It is strike number one against Louisville's FOP. The Kentucky Court of Appeals slapped down an injunction against the city that now frees up Chief White and Mayor Abramson to push ahead with plans to raise fees for take home police cars. The FOP argued, rightly so, that the fees should not change until the state Labor Cabinet hears arguments on the case. It isn't clear if the city will move to raise fees immediately, but based on their prior actions, it would not surprise anyone if they did. The ham-handed techniques used by the city on this issue is the reason why it is in the courts, and the city has chosen , once again, to negotiate through the media rather than with the police directly.
Expect a renewed battle among police and the mayor.
The Courier-Journal has an article HERE.
This really isn't a loss, it wasn't decided on the merits. They just decided that an injuntion wasn't the appropriate remedy. These are judges who know little of the history.
ReplyDeleteThe one point that everyone is missing in this mess is that the cars aren't "free" - they come with the obligation (speled out in policy) that officers must stop and render aid, if appropriate, and must keep their radios on so that they can assist if appropriate. For most officers, that's a few hours of uncompensated work at week, at least. It has always been understood that they don't bill OT for this, although of course, they could have done so. Now, they will, and that will end up costing the city far, far more. It's a lose-lose for the city.
Agreed, agreed and agreed. Thanks for your comments.
ReplyDelete