June 13, 2014 - I have decided to veto the ordinance passed by City Council that would end collective bargaining for non-public safety union employees.
This has been a divisive issue that sends the wrong message and is a step backward for our community.
By working together, we’ve experienced unprecedented momentum in the City of Fort Wayne. Through innovative and engaging partnerships, we’ve built a nationally-recognized, affordable, and high-performing city government. Now is not the time to risk the progress we’re making in our community by rushing through an ordinance that takes away the rights of our award-winning city employees. We win the future by making smart choices, not by jeopardizing the formula for success and demoralizing our city team.
I want to recognize and commend Councilmen Hines, Paddock, and Shoaff for opposing the collective bargaining ordinance. I applaud them for being advocates for employees, residents, and businesses.
The ordinance passed by City Council does not assist our collective efforts to invest in the future, attract and retain businesses and jobs, and be a leader in quality of life and neighborhood enhancements.
We will overcome this unnecessary challenge that is before us. I commit to all city employees and residents of Fort Wayne that we’ll continue to work together to win the future and place our city in the best position possible for growth and prosperity.