SCVWD Arbitration Win

Local 21 prevailed in a wrongful suspension arbitration at the Santa Clara Valley Water District in San Jose. The case dealt with a PMA members’ five-day suspension, in which we contended that the discipline was not justified. The Arbitrator agreed with our position.

Arbitrator Catherine Harris stated in the December decision, “The grievance is granted. All evidence of the five-day suspension shall be removed from the Grievant’s work record. The Grievant is to be made whole for any loss of wages and benefits resulting from the five-day suspension. The arbitrator retains jurisdiction over implementation of the award.”

The Arbitrator saw the record and heard testimony from several individuals in making her decision. The hearings were held over the summer, so the decision is long-awaited and we are proud of the work our attorney, leaders, and staff did in preparing and presenting the case.