Proposed Budget Similar to
1996
Status Quo Maintained Due to
Negotiations
By Sina Williams
BNG president
Preparing a budget for 1997 posed several unique
challenges.
We're beginning the year carrying a sizable lost time
bill from our extended bargaining sessions and yet we need to anticipate
additional costs if bargaining does extend into the new year. Additionally,
not having a settled wage increase to compute our 1997 dues revenue posed
a problem. Another unknown is whether the international's monthly assessment
will be extended beyond June 1997. You'll remember that our local approved
an increase of dues from 1.53% to 1.66% to cover the international's
mandate.
I took the conservative route by basing our income
on 1996 revenue as much as possible, using the same 1996 figure of $222,250
for dues and fees. However, I increased our annual payment to TNG by $6,000,
anticipating a continuation of the international's assessment until the end
of 1997, as well as the annual increase in per capita tax. This meant keeping
expenses lower than is usually necessary. The $21,500 in general fund surplus
will supplement the lost time line and between both items there should be
enough for 1996 costs, and any 1997 lost time expenses. Using the same logic,
I've not increased the local service representative's salary and reduced
the amount allotted for conferences and education. I hope to be able to recommend
adjustments after the contract is settled, and when we know whether the
assessment will be extended.
Another expense that could be adjusted at that time
are the Guild convention costs. Since it's in Puerto Rico, we anticipate
the costs per person to be higher than normal. However, this is an historic
meeting when we will be ratifying the merger with the Communications Workers
of America. Hopefully, the local will be able to send more than two
people.
Most other expenses are similar to what we normally
budget in a non-negotiating year. We have not allocated anything for the
adopted striker program since this money should be coming from member
contributions. I've put in money for a stewards' training program. When
bargaining is behind us we can focus on continuing these worthwhile
sessions.