CMU, FA go back to bargaining Friday

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Central Michigan University and the Faculty Association will begin bargaining today, less than a week after a fact-finding report was released detailing each issue between the groups.

It is the first time the two sides will meet since Sept. 30.

Fact-finder Barry Goldman’s non-binding set of findings came Tuesday in an attempt to break an impasse in the four-month-old contract talks, in which mediation has already failed. FA President Laura Frey declined comment on the findings.

Goldman sided with the university’s proposals on economic issues such as salary and benefits, and with the FA on retirement and promotion increases.

The university proposed a pay freeze for this year with small increases for the next two years.

Goldman dismissed the FA’s contention that CMU had $228 million in unrestricted funds at the time that could be used to fund more generous raises.

“With the recommendations of the independent, third-party fact-finder now in hand, we look forward to moving quickly toward reaching an agreement,” Director of Public Relations Steve Smith said Tuesday.

Chris Benison, president of the Students for Faculty registered student organization, said he believes Goldman gave his best advice to both parties involved in the contract negotiation.

“My general impression is that Mr. Goldman did make an attempt to be as fair and impartial as possible given the circumstances,” the Mount Pleasant senior said Tuesday.

-University Editor Theresa Clift contributed to this report.