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School Union Cites Impasse

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By RONNIE BLAIR rblair@tampatrib.com

The Tampa Tribune

Published: October 22, 2008

LAND O' LAKES - United School Employees of Pasco declared an impasse Tuesday in contract negotiations with the Pasco County School District, setting the stage for a third party to intervene.

The union notified the state's Public Employees Relations Commission, which means a special master will be assigned to conduct a hearing and make a recommendation to the school board.

The union declared the impasse after the school district canceled a negotiating session scheduled for today, Lynne Webb, president of the union, said in a statement.

Two months into the school year, negotiators have been unable to reach an agreement on raises, step increases or other contract issues.

Superintendent Heather Fiorentino has said a tight budget year and the likelihood of further state cuts have played a role in delaying an agreement. The district wanted to wait until after a student head count this month to get a better handle on state funding.

That count happened last week, but the district is waiting for the numbers to be validated. Webb said that's unnecessary because the district performed the count itself.

Terry Rhum, director of employee relations for the school district, said he was surprised the union declared an impasse. With the special master's involvement, it could take weeks before there is a resolution, he said.

"It's quite a lengthy process," Rhum said.

Reporter Ronnie Blair can be reached at (813) 948-4218 or rblair@tampatrib.com.

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