Board unanimously approves five-year extension to AFSCME memorandum of understanding

The Washington County Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved an amendment to the memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Public Employees Council 3, AFSCME, extending the current bargaining agreement for five years and clarifying eligibility for step increases.

Michelle Gordon, county administrator, presented the MOU amendment and explained the only requested change was to include the Washington County Sheriff's Department and the Division of Emergency Services among employees eligible for step increases in each fiscal year of the MOU. She asked for a motion to approve the amendment with that change.

Sam Mowery, who identified himself on the record as "Sam Mowery, I'm the president of the local 26 77," spoke in support and thanked the commissioners and county administration for pay-scale adjustments and support for employees.

The board moved, seconded and approved the amendment unanimously; the meeting record reflects a 5-0 vote.

The board then voted 5-0 to go into closed session for the reason stated on the agenda and took a short recess before the closed session.