FOP Members Vote No To City's Proposals

Yes, a couple officers who work in the 2nd division brought it up at the meeting. At least within that division, they are attempting to bypass the FOP. I'm not sure about elsewhere. I'm pretty sure that violates state law.

No, it is not true - let me explain... Last Friday Major Gentry returned from a meeting at the Chief's office with a copy of the letter to the FOP outlining the four options. She took it upon herself to give each officer a copy of that letter so they could read and evaluate it for themselves. Each of the options (including not participating in the take-home car program) was outlined and some of the ramifications explained (i.e.- affects on pension, retirement, etc...). At the time, the FOP had not announced that it was going to hold a meeting on the following Monday and the offer to let officers express their preference to the "5" options in a "vote" format was given; the results were to be taken to the FOP leadership, not the Chief's office. The intent was to help ensure the FOP was aware of how the officers felt regarding the issue. Once the FOP announced it was to hold a meeting on Monday, the "vote" was cancelled as it was no longer necessary. The staff of the Second Division went out of it's way to ensure the officers understood the options and encouraged them to contact the FOP to express their opinions and ask additional questions - at no time was any officer "influenced" to choose an option, and there was never any attempt to bypass the FOP or the contract. I regret the confusion that them membership experienced that resulted from the uninformed officers unprofessional acusation. Emotions were high and his statement did nothing but inflame the membership, and slander the command staff of the Second Division. I trust most took his statement with a grain of salt, since he did not ask a question, but rather made an inflammatory outburst during a very sensitive meeting. I gladly sign this so anyone with questions regarding this issue can contact me if they have additional questions.

Thank You for your service, be safe!

D. Gray