The Hoboken Tax Reform Coalition

Revolt's Correspondence With Judy Tripodi Regarding the Release of the Audits

Sent: Tuesday, January 26, 2010 9:37 PM
To: Judy Tripodi
Subject: Re: Follow up

Hi Judy-

I saw something disturbing in this weekend's Hoboken Reporter and rather than assume it is true I am sending you this note for clarification. In the article in regards to the labor negotiation contracts it stated, "According to one councilperson, it wouldn't matter anyway: State-appointed Fiscal Monitor Judy Tripodi has the power to override any council decision."

In our past emails you were kind enough to share with me that the council would in fact have its say and vote on the contracts. Can you confirm that the council's vote will be binding?

I would also love to hear your thoughts on the police audits. It is my understanding the state was going to release the police audit to the city on January 18th. I have heard the deadline was not met and the city has yet to receive the audit. Is this true? Do you have a copy? If you do, would you share it with the public?

As we have discussed in past emails, I try not to believe everything I read and hear on the streets. Any clarification you can provide on these matters is much appreciated.

Thank you for having an open dialogue with us!

Kristina Hahn

Hoboken Revolt Steering Committee

From: Judy Tripodi
Sent: Wed, Jan 27, 2010 8:55 am
Subject: RE: Follow up

The City’s labor attorneys and I have been negotiating with the police unions for more than 5 months now. I believe we have reached a fair and equitable contract for all parties concerned. We have gained some concessions which will save the City a lot of money next year and in subsequent years. The mayor and council are looking for even greater concessions and I understand that; however, it is impossible to take back benefits in one year that were granted over 15-20 years. The City must continue to inch away at the lucrative benefits enjoyed by all unions at all future negotiations. It is also important to note that, if the police unions filed for arbitration, we would probably not obtain those concessions and the salary increase may even be higher than that offered in negotiations.

Having said that, Council may not ratify the contracts because they wanted additional give backs. In that case, I am prepared to sign off on the contracts and move forward. The longer the hold out, the more expensive the retroactive pay. Also, new negotiations will have to begin in 2011, so this should be wrapped up now. We can’t get any more for this contract.

I have not received a final copy of the police audit. I was away during the week of the 18^th. Once the Mayor has reviewed the audit, she and I will discuss how to provide the information to the public. I do believe the public has a right to see the information contained in the report. I also believe that we need to right size the police, fire and all other City departments and have been and will continue to be moving in that direction.

I hope I have addressed your concerns. Judy

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