On Tuesday May 24, 2011 PLEA attended a City Council meeting where issues were raised concerning merit increases and longevity pay for city employees. Since these two issues are contractual in nature they must be dealt with through the contract negotiation process. City Manager David Cavazos spoke out in defense of protecting these important benefits. PLEA President Mark Spencer was given the opportunity to address the council and also explained the importance of protecting these benefits. The City Manager and PLEA presented a unified front in addressing this issue.
On an interesting side note, former PPSLA President Matt Knowles communicated the following to PLEA and PPSLA:
“Are you guys going to organize your members to oppose these political opportunists who are targeting our longevity pay and merit raises? Seems like the perfect time to present a united front on an issue of concern to all ranks.”
PPSLA was conspicuously absent at the meeting.