Thursday, 4:30 PM
Unions come together at Somerville City Hall
By Kristen Green, Globe Correspondent
SOMERVILLE — More than 150 firefighters and police officers picketed City Hall on Wednesday to object to proposed wage increases for nonunion employees while union members work their third year without a contract.
Officials for both the police and firefighter unions said Mayor Joseph A. Curtatone has not acted in good faith in negotiations.
Jay Colbert, who heads the firefighters union, said he’s disheartened by the size of raises proposed for the mayor and aldermen — 45 and 74 percent, respectively — while the firefighters are being offered 1 and 2 percent raises. ‘‘The fire department’s definitely not a priority here,’’ he said.
Jack Leuchter of the patrolmen’s union said the message to public safety is clear. ‘‘The city has money — they’re taking it for themselves and not giving it to the unions,’’ he said.
It was the first time the two unions have picketed together, Colbert said.
Curtatone defended his attempts to negotiate with both unions and said his administration is still at the table. The unions and city administration said a sticking point in the negotiations is the city’s request that the employees contribute more toward healthcare expenses. Curtatone said nonunion employees agreed earlier this year to contribute 15 percent of their health expenses, as have other unions.
