Letters to the Editor
Supports tough line when dealing with union

To the Editor:

I read a recent article (Front page, Gardner News, February 7) about the Ashburnham-Westminster Regional School District members discussing the upcoming school contract with the union. It was stated that the highest line items were contractual obligations. Westminster Advisory Board member Keith Harding, supported by other members, suggested that the school committee renegotiate the contract with the union for an increase in funding that is more "proportionate with residents¿ promotions in salaries."

The response of the school committee was akin to rubber stamping whatever the union brought forward to discuss. The union has tough negotiators and will quickly say what they think. They also understand reality and may be willing to make trade-offs and see the other side's point of view. However, the school committee won't know that unless they approach the union with their thinking.

If the school committee is willing to admit defeat before the battle begins, I would suggest that we not waste the Westminster Advisory Board's time with them. In the future have the union put their proposal in front of the school committee without discussion or negotiation. The school committee can then deal with the union after the town approves or disapproves the annual budget.

We need more people like Mr. Harding and his supporters looking out for the best interests of our towns. Shame on the Regional School Committee for not even considering to negotiate this important part of the union contract.

Roy Hughes

Westminster