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Council refers Public Health Nurses collective bargaining agreement to Health & Human Services committee
Summary
A tentative collective bargaining agreement for Springfield Public Health Nurses was presented and, after questions about vacancies and pay, the council voted to send it to the Health & Human Services Committee for further review.
The Springfield City Council voted Monday to refer a ratified collective bargaining agreement (CBA) for the Springfield Public Health Nurses to the Health & Human Services Committee for additional review and follow-up.
Bill Mahoney, director of human resources and labor relations, presented the agreement and said it covers the period beginning July 1, 2024, and extends through February 2028. The contract provides a $1-per-hour increase in the first year and raises of 2% in years two through four. The agreement also expands grievance filing time from five to 10 days, incorporates language for military leave previously approved by council, and allows the Commissioner of Health and Human Services more flexibility to use outside agencies and part‑time, nonbargaining staff.
Councilors expressed concern that there are currently no employees in the bargaining unit. Mahoney said there had been one employee during negotiations who ratified the tentative agreement and then resigned before the council vote. "It's a very odd situation," Mahoney said, noting the unit had three to four members historically but is now vacant.
Councilor Michael Curran moved to send the item to committee, citing concerns about recruiting and whether the salary will attract candidates. Councilor Jose Davila seconded the referral. Councilor Whitfield questioned the proposed salary level; Mahoney said the proposed starting salary for a nurse with a bachelor's degree under the contract would be about $71,300. Several councilors urged committee review of recruitment strategies and salary competitiveness, and Councilor Brown raised the idea of on‑site nursing for the police department holding cells as a separate operational matter to examine.
The Health & Human Services Committee will review the contract language, recruitment plan and budget implications. The referral passed on roll call.
Ending: The referral puts the CBA on track for committee analysis of staffing, salary competitiveness and operational flexibility before the council takes a final ratification vote.
