Firefighters union ‘here to stay?

Atlas Twp. – Twice as many Atlas Township firefighters cast ballots last month in favor of keeping the union.
The Michigan Department of Labor certified the election results May 3, reporting a 12-6 vote, said Joel Felt, labor relations specialist for the Michigan Association of Firefighters in Southfield, Mich.
‘The union is here to stay and we will get along with them and progress,? said fire chief Jim Naugler.
Decertification petitions to dissolve the union were submitted in the midst of charges filed by MAFF against Atlas Township for unfair labor practices and failure to bargain. An Aug. 8 hearing will still be held, says Felt.
Atlas Township firefighters unanimously voted June 15, 2001 to join MAFF to bargain for wages, benefits, promotions, and working conditions.