By Howard Packowitz
FARMER CITY – With a possible strike looming, the union representing teachers and other Blue Ridge School District employees is releasing to the public its latest contract proposal.
The Blue Ridge Federation of Teachers says it wants a one-year deal with a 4.25 percent raise, compared to the school board’s desire to reach a three-year agreement providing employees with a 2.25 percent increase the first year.
The union is also asking the district to raise its contribution to a health savings account offsetting employees’ deductibles.
Federation President Don Anton said the union is open to a multi-year contract, if there’s an agreement on other issues.
The union is submitting its proposal to the Illinois Labor Relations Board, which Anton said is a step toward a possible strike.
Superintendent Susan Wilson said last week the district would post offers from both sides October 7, two days before negotiators meet for a third session with the federal mediator on October 9.
The union says the soonest a walkout can happen October 21. Although there hasn’t been a strike vote, members voted last month to create a strike exploratory committee.
The federation represents about 110 employees, including teachers, secretaries, aides, library clerks, cooks, nurses, custodians, and bus drivers.
Blue Ridge District 18 runs three schools serving Farmer City, Mansfield, and Bellflower.
Howard Packowitz can be reached at [email protected]
