By Jennifer Gomori, MAP Editor
Sometimes it’s not just about what you know, but who you know when it comes to seeking out optimal representation. Michigan Association of Police (MAP) checked off all the right boxes with Huntington Woods Public Safety Officers, who joined the Union in February 2023.
Huntington Woods Public Safety Officers were originally represented by Police Officers Association of Michigan (POAM), followed by the Police Officers Labor Council (POLC) for the past 8 years. Concerned they were not receiving the representation they desired during contract negotiations, they voted to join MAP.
Local Union President Joe Ajlouny became curious about MAP after former Beverly Hills Public Safety Lt. Chad Trussler retired and became a MAP Labor Relations Specialist in 2021. Trussler had served 15 years combined as Beverly Hills Command Officers Local Union President and a Steward and Treasurer for Beverly Hills Public Safety Officers.
Huntington Woods Public Safety Officers continue to be impressed with the responsiveness of their MAP Labor Relations Specialist.
“It’s been outstanding. He will answer the phone whenever you call. He will respond back the second you text,” Ajlouny said. “Chad even put out his cell phone number to the meeting members that couldn’t attend. He’s literally been so accommodating in every aspect. Prior unions were pretty difficult to get somebody on the phone. With MAP and Chad it’s different. MAP has walked us through every step of it from the vote to the ratification of the contract we just signed.”
The group was pleasantly surprised by the efficiency and effectiveness of MAP contract negotiations with the City. Before their contract expired on June 30, a new four-year agreement was ratified.
Their MAP-negotiated agreement garnered 20 percent wage increases over the four year agreement, effective July 1, 2023 to June 30, 2027.
The public safety group now has the ability to cash out unused Vacation Time at the end of the year. They followed suit in their contract with a limitation on Overtime (OT) which was negotiated in the Command unit’s most recent contract.
“We were really grateful for being able to be represented by MAP,” Ajlouny said. “This negotiation was the easiest we’ve ever done. Chad and MAP had a lot of information prepared. They were on the ball and easily accessible and readily available. It’s been a great experience and everyone is really happy. “
