As Labor Counsel for the Town of Belmont, we submit the following summary of major activities during 2002:
Police Department
We consulted with the Board of Selectmen, Melvin Kleckner and the Chief of Police regarding various grievances, arbitrations, and personnel matters.
We successfully represented the Town in various proceedings before the Civil Service Commission and the Massachusetts Commission against Discrimination.
We represented the Town in its investigation of the police department and facilitated the resignation of an officer of the department.
NAGE
We consulted from time to time with the Board of Selectmen and various department heads regarding various restructurings, grievances, personnel matters, and arbitrations.
We successfully represented the Town in a proceeding before the Labor Relations Commission.
AFSCME
We consulted throughout the year with the Board of Selectmen and various department heads regarding general personnel matters, worker’s compensation matters and employee grievances.
Fire Department
We consulted throughout the year with the Board of Selectmen and the Fire Chief regarding general matters and grievances.
In addition, we represented the Town before the Massachusetts Civil Service Commission in matters relating to the by-pass of certain individuals for selection as firefighters.
Joint Public Safety Communications Center
We consulted throughout the year with the Board of Selectmen and the Director of the JPSC regarding general personnel matters.
In addition, we continued to represent the Town in a matter before the Massachusetts Commission against Discrimination.
Municipal Light Department
We consulted throughout the year with the Municipal Light Board and the Light Department Manager regarding general personnel matters.
General Matters
In addition to the services engaged above, we assisted the Town in its ongoing discussions with the Unions concerning the contemplated changes to the Town’s health insurance program. We were further consulted on and provided guidance in the transition of the former Chief of Police to the current Acting Chief. Finally, we undertook and assisted the Town in the review and revision of its personnel guide and policy manual, as well as the various Town employment policies.
In general, we were called upon by the Board of Selectmen, Melvin Kleckner and the various department heads to provide general advice and guidance in the labor and employment area. For the third consecutive year we have seen a decrease in the number of grievances filed by the various Unions, indicating improved communication and harmony between management and personnel. We are pleased to report that labor relations in the Town of Belmont remain in a very healthy state.
Respectfully Submitted,
Robert B. Crowe, Esq.
Scott E. Bettencourt, Esq.
| 
