COBA is very proud to announce that we have come to an agreement with the Dept on an issue that has been a constant problem for many years. The issue is "Seniority" when being considered for Ancillary Unit Job Openings/Assignments.

Today I signed an agreement with the Sheriff wherein "Strict Seniority" will be the deciding factor for the majority of Ancillary Unit Job Postings. Examples to include Transportation, Visiting, Medical, Rehab, Computers, Training etc.

This agreement is a MAJOR victory and a step forward for each and every COBA Member.

Seniority for Job Postings and grievances related thereto has been an issue of constant battle for this Union for many many years. Almost every other similarly situated Union has a Seniority/Bidding process. Today's agreement greatly enhances each and every COBA Member's ability to secure a preferred job in this Dept and takes the politics out of it. Sooner or later, everyone gains seniority. This agreement levels the playing field for all employees and provides all our Members with an equal and fair opportunity to secure a position they seek.

We were not able to agree on the Units requiring Specialized Training in Operations (A&D, ID, Court Desk, Housing). Internal Affairs is also not included. Assignment to these units will continue to be awarded pursuant to the language contained in Sec. 11-2.1 (a) of the current Contract. We will work on these in the future.