BREAKING NEWS…Pueblo, CO: ColoradoWINS forced themselves upon state correction officers December 17, 2009 when “WINS members only” voted to force Department of Corrections (DOC) employees to work 12-hour shifts. Jeff Hotchkiss, a sergeant at the Pueblo correction facility, filed a formal complaint of discrimination against the DOC and the State of Colorado that WINS is “forcing” non-members to join if they want a voice in decisions about their work environment.
Here is the formal complaint by Sgt. Jeff Hotchkiss:
“On December 15, 2009 at about 0550 a.m. in the San Carlos roll call room I (Jeff Hotchkiss) along with all day shift staff were addressed by Bob Cantwell, Director of Prisons and Lou Archuleta, Deputy Director of Prisons. The meeting was concerning the upcoming vote by staff to obtain their opinion of going to twelve hour shifts. Also present were Gabe Hernandez and a Mr. Parker representing the Employee’s Organization (WINS). All staff were notified at that time that there would be a vote concerning the (MSP) Multi-Shift pilot program. We were also told that only WINS member’s would be allowed to vote. We were told that if you want to have a say, join WINS. Several people voiced their anger about the vote. I also spoke up and stated that what they were purposing was wrong.
“It was clearly a decided issue and our protests were in vein. Having top D.O.C. officials present added an intimidating factor to the meeting. The action taken was discriminatory in nature and created a hostile work environment. On December 17, 2009 the WINS vote was conducted, discriminating against employees and myself for not being members of their organization. Direct violation of Administrative Regulation 1450-05, Dept. Vision and Values statements, State Personnel Rules and Governor Executive Order D 028 07. I felt like I was being forced to join the Employee’s Organization and being intimidated by top D.O.C. officials. I personally, was emotionally shocked by the presentation. I cannot believe the gall and arrogance of the D.O.C. and WINS to stand up and blatantly discriminate against me and fellow staff. I found the presentation and the vote to be offensive and against, what any reasonable person would consider fair and or just.” [I edited this to protect other state employees by removing their names.]
I will provide more information as it comes in.
Is this how you want WINS to represent YOU??? This is what’s coming! A small handful of disgruntled employees will do what they want unless you join with them and pay dues of 1% of your gross salary.
What can we do about it? We can vote them out! I hope to present an opportunity soon that will allow us to vote WINS out. Watch for updates on the website. Tell your friends to get on my email list or to watch the website, too.
Dave Ohmart
The Biggest Loser