North Jersey Media Group -
[Cached Version]
Published on: 6/27/2003
Last Visited: 6/27/2003
"Hopefully, we won't have to use them," said Fran Ehret, president of Local 194, the turnpike union that represents 900 toll collectors, maintenance workers, and office employees.But she offered no guarantees.
A job action could mean major migraines for the throngs of drivers heading to the Jersey shore next week and over the busy July Fourth holiday weekend.The union's four-year contract expires at midnight June 30.
Ehret said she was "disappointed" and "annoyed" following a meeting Wednesday in Trenton to hammer out a new pact with members of the McGreevey administration.
"We've hit a brick wall," Ehret said.
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Ehret said the administration wants to give the union the same package given to state workers.The union argues that its members should be treated separately because the turnpike is an independent authority with its own operating budget.
"We know the turnpike has the money and we've been helping the turnpike solve its problems," Ehret said.
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Ehret said the union plans to file an unfair labor practice action against the state today with the Public Employment Relations Commission.Meanwhile, more talks are planned.