YEAR IN REVIEW #1: Faculty Association strikes on first day of classes

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Contract bargaining between Central Michigan University and the Faculty Association began in April, continued through the summer and ended in a faculty strike the first day of fall semester classes.

University President George Ross condemned the FA’s decision to strike on Aug. 22, calling the action “illegal.” It was the first time he had addressed the stalled contract talks and the FA’s decision Sunday not to teach classes starting Monday.

At 10:30 a.m. in the typically quiet third floor of the Charles V. Park Library, Ross said the university’s financial problems have created this crisis. Students, the public and picketers were not allowed in the library during the press conference. A group of approximately 30 students made their way inside before police officers began turning people away.

“This past year, this university received a $12 million reduction in appropriations from the state of Michigan — a 15 percent reduction,” Ross said. “In light of reductions of state appropriations, in light of budget projections at this university and the state of Michigan, looking at declining high school enrollments in the out years, we’re planning financially for our future.”

Ross called the strike “illegal,” but the FA disagreed, saying protests are allowed in response to unfair labor practices.

Isabella County Circuit Judge Mark Duthie signed on the behalf of Isabella County Trial Court Judge Paul H. Chamberlain to order faculty to return to classes immediately on Aug. 22 in a temporary restraining order.

“We will obey the court order and return to work tomorrow, but this does not end the issue,” FA President Laura Frey said in a release at the time. “The faculty remains strong and committed to securing a fair and equitable contract for members.”

Frey said the FA considered its work stoppage a success.

On Dec. 1, both sides reached a tentative agreement after meeting with Chamberlain for about 14 hours. The FA plans to take a membership ratification vote Jan. 11 and 12, according to a joint press release by both sides.