HEARTS AND MINDS: A CASE STUDY OF EXECUTIVE AND SUPERVISOR UNIONS IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT

J. P. PISKULICH

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DOI: 10.2190/6KTH-P4N8-Q15W-EHAQ

Abstract

This study examines a city in which all employees except the city manager and one assistant are unionized. It explores the significance of the having department heads and supervisors sitting on both sides of the bargaining table--negotiating not only with their subordinates, but also with the city on their own behalf. Interviews with key players result in a general finding that this arrangement is workable in this jurisdiction. The role behavior of participants, their experience with collective bargaining, and the institutional context are key factors. An implication is that bargaining rights might be extended successfully to public administrators among the highest ranks of the organization.

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