Pantagraph.com | News | Deputies' picket call for better wages from county

Note: All views and opinions expressed in reader comments are solely those of the individual submitting the comment, and not those of the Pantagraph or its staff.

TO: A friend from Gov't opressed Mule wrote on Oct 1, 2007 10:11 AM:

" Ok, I was going to stay out of this because like I said, this doesn't interest me much, HOWEVER...I couldn't help but read your last post which states.."I know; I was the target of his maliciousness. " I actually have the Pantagraphs web address to the post to which you were refering and in fact he was arguing against a smoking ban when you were making such childish comments such as "we won, you lose, NAH NAH NAH.." There are over 20 of these such posts, so don't try to rally sympathy for your "attacks from JD." He was in fact calling a spade a spade when he "attacked" your childness. Let's keep the comments on the issue, not past bickering. "

JD wrote on Sep 29, 2007 1:45 PM:

" I have not backed off. I merely refuse to elaborate on what my official title was as a peace officer as it does not matter. It seems that since you can not attack my observations from being a peace officer, so you wish to perform a petty attack on what kind of peace officer I was. It is a typical ploy used by weak debaters to attempt to discredit a person, and not the information, in an attempt to discredit information. I stand by my observations and statements. If you care to debate those, feel free. If you want to attack me, feel free in that also, as it just proves my point. "

Hey Bud wrote on Sep 29, 2007 11:43 AM:

" You brought up your experience as a "peace officer". Now that it has been questioned, you back off. If it was not important, why did you bring it up? Looking back at his posts, he changes his view often. "

A Friend wrote on Sep 29, 2007 11:39 AM:

" The posts get personal because posters set themselves up as experts on subjects. The posters that are now trying to deflect their notoriety are the very same ones who viciously attacked others in the past. I know; I was the target of his maliciousness. Now he doesn’t like it that the public has grown tired of his antics and he can’t take the same as he gave. What goes around comes around. There is a backlash and it is growing. Keep the bullet in your pocket. What a joke he has become. "

JD wrote on Sep 29, 2007 8:52 AM:

" I love how people attempt to belittle the poster, since they can not logically argue their point. It does not matter what my job title was as a peace officer. I could have been a security officer, a police officer, a corrections officer, it just does not matter. My job history is not what this article is about. I understand that there seems to be undo fascination with me in about any thread I post in, but could we put your interest in me on the back burner and keep the comments on topic? "

To A Friend from Deputy Dog wrote on Sep 29, 2007 3:38 AM:

" I would have to agree with you. JD is a good security officer, in fact I believe that security officers are really under payed. Maybe JD could get a few of his co-workers together and have an informational picket to help get better pay for himself and his friends. It might make him feel better about himself if he was doing something that real police officers were doing, make him feel like he was part of the team again. "

A Friend wrote on Sep 28, 2007 10:40 PM:

" There is no stigma in being a security officer. Don't be ashamed. It was a security officer that incovered the Watergate breakin. A security officer checks my bags when I leave Wal-Mart too. They are our fist defense against terrorism. They carry handcuffs too. They wear badges and have spiffy uniforms. Nothing to be ashamed of; keep up the good work. "

TO JD wrote on Sep 28, 2007 9:42 PM:

" Are you realy a security officer? Just Curious. LOL "

JD wrote on Sep 28, 2007 7:12 PM:

" Ah, let the personal attacks begin. I love how when people can not argue intelligently, they have to degrade themselves in an attack to discredit the argument. While police can not strike, they have other methods, such as the 'blue flu' which shorts the staffing and does hold the publics safety hostage. So instead of attempting to prove they are worth more money, they want to whine (informational pickets), insinuate public safety is at risk (blue flu), and personally attack those who realize that the officers are actually overpaid semi-skilled labor not underpaid skilled labor. "

Re: TO GOM from Gov't Opressed Mule wrote on Sep 28, 2007 5:23 PM:

" Actually your post did help. I was unaware they were under a contract. But still they knew what the contract was prior to signing it and if they don't feel it's fair, why re-sign it? Why not apply for other positions? I don't know if I can hit 100 again, this topic doesn't interest me much :-) But thank you again for your information. "

Go Cubs! wrote on Sep 28, 2007 3:29 PM:

" If anyone deserves fair pay, it's these guys. Hope they break the county on this one. It's hard to beleive our county wants to skate by underpaying our law enforcement officials. You guys do a class act job and don't let these jerks or their comments bring you down. When they do your job then they can complain. The county should be a proactive organization in encouraging fair pay. Maybe our new board chairman needs a refresher course in how to treat the hard working constituents he serves. GO CUBS! "

To Gov't Opressed Mule wrote on Sep 28, 2007 2:32 PM:

" That is why their is a contract. Towards the end of the contract the negotiation process starts. When one side (county) gets petty the other side (deputies) get a third person to decide. Its is very easy to understand the process. The informational picket is part of the process. I hope this helps. You did say you were an old Mule, it might take a few more posts...LOL "

TO: Deputy Dog from Gov't Opressed Mule wrote on Sep 28, 2007 1:32 PM:

" I couldn't agree more. Some people can't handle this job. Sounds like the picketers are the very people of which you speak. If they don't like their pay, QUIT. They took the job knowing what they are being paid, now they want to cry about it? If they are worth what they say then they should apply elsewhere. If no one hires them, well maybe that's for a reason. "

for JD again wrote on Sep 28, 2007 12:18 PM:

" my whole arguement about the lengthy testng process is that it costs the county money to do all of that. It has nothing to do with the people passing or even taking the test. It is just that everytime someone leaves the county for better pay, the county has to invest a TON of money to find a replacement. that is my point. "

Deputy Dog wrote on Sep 28, 2007 11:41 AM:

" Calm down JD just because you could not cut it as a police officer and now the only job you can get is as a security guard doesn't mean you need to take it out on the ones who can do the job. Look not everyone can do this job and thats OK. You need to just get on with your life and do the best you can. "

To: JD to: For JD wrote on Sep 28, 2007 11:40 AM:

" POLICE CANNOT STRIKE!! I don't know many of you here that would protect & serve and lay your life on the line day in and day out, not knowing what any traffic stop or domestic call brings until your in the situation for $32,000. Sleep well. "

A Friend wrote on Sep 27, 2007 9:18 PM:

" Is a security guard a peace officer? I can't believe the crap that guy spews. "

TO JD wrote on Sep 27, 2007 3:40 PM:

" POLICE CANNOT STRIKE!!!!!!!!!!! "

JD to: for JD wrote on Sep 27, 2007 1:04 AM:

" Many jobs require alot of 'hoops' to jump through, and alot of time to jump through them. It does not justify demanding more money than the job is actually worth according to the market. If one feels they are worth more than they are making, they are obligated to test that self examination by attempting to find a job more in line with their vision of themselves. The problem is that deep down, they know they are over paid, or they would have went on strike already. "

for JD wrote on Sep 26, 2007 11:56 PM:

" I never said the testing process was super hard, I have personally taken the police tests and no, they are not the hardest thing in the world. What i was getting at is that most people don't understand the numerous requirements one has to meet, or the length of time it takes to get hired as a police officer. "

To: JD wrote on Sep 26, 2007 5:13 PM:

" You probaly got fired for being dishonest.. Lets be real you have a problem with Law Enforcement officers it is easy to see in your posts. You are not as inteligent as you are trying to come off and it shows, so save yourself and quit posting. (you probaly supported the Terrorist from IRAN coming into the U.S. to talk). "

To:to get another job that pays more wrote on Sep 26, 2007 2:03 PM:

" As a local law enforcement officer I can assure you that the majority of officers have at least a college degree. Most do now a days. I recieved mine in history education so that I knew if I didn't make it through any selection processes or got hurt I would have a back up career. Since my department will pay for it I will be working on a masters degree as soon as my wife finishes hers. Multiple officers at my department have masters degrees in subjects ranging from psychlogy to business administration. So next time you have to lower yourself and speak with a stupid cop do not be surpirsed if they are more highly educated than your comfortable stereotype allows. "

JD to: Don't be so sure wrote on Sep 26, 2007 1:12 PM:

" Having been employed as a peace officer at one time, I can tell you that it is not as difficult as you attempt to make it seem to get onto the hiring lists. It does not require rocket science like intelligence, nor the athletic ability of the common high school jock. While it may have been difficult for you, it is not difficult for the majority. It is just that the majority are not going to get trapped in a low skilled job with pay that matches the skill level. For some though, it is obviously the best they can do, but now feel they are worth more than they actually are. "

OK, THiS iS Simple wrote on Sep 26, 2007 12:29 PM:

" You don'T like your job or pay? QUIT! Find one you do like and quiT Crying abou iT. "

TO GET ANOTHER JOB THAT PAYS MORE wrote on Sep 26, 2007 7:52 AM:

" Exactly, you are not qualified to fill a position that pays more. With that said you must live with the fact that your educational background disallows you from obtaining a higher salary. If you want a job that pays more, then you must retain a college education or do manual labor, very simple. "

Don't be so sure wrote on Sep 25, 2007 11:42 PM:

" I get the feeling that people on here think that just anyone can pass the requirements to become a police officer. I would be willing to bet that most of the people bad mouthing on here would not be able to pass the physical test, then there is the written test, and finally the background check, credit check, polygraph, and all the other investigation that goes into hiring an officer. If you think you could pass every aspect of the hiring process then fine, if not then please don't make comments about the hiring requirements. My ultimate point here is that it is not as easy as it looks to find quality people who can pass all these tests. Offer competetive money and the more qualified people will apply. It would save the department time and money. "

To Get another Job wrote on Sep 25, 2007 2:20 PM:

" You said, "So tell me again where these Officers are supposed to go find a better job at that pays more." BINGO! The market doesn't support paying more. The deputies should be thankful they have the job they do. Maybe the real problem is Bloomington PD is OVERpaid? "

JD to: To JD and everyone wrote on Sep 25, 2007 8:51 AM:

" Are you saying that there are no more potential hirees on the list? Are you saying that you are so elite that only the current officers could pass the 'rigorous' requirements? No contract has been reached because the current union thinks the members are way more special and important then they actually are. So there are requirements to get the job, many jobs have them. Get over yourselves, accept the wages you are worth, and get back to exploiting your positions to exceed the speed limits because you feel like it. "

To JD & Everyone wrote on Sep 25, 2007 7:14 AM:

" To even be considered to be an officer, there is a process. Fill out the application, go to the oreintation, pass a written test, pass an oral interview, pass a polygraph test. If you pass all of these steps, then you are placed on a list and have another interview with the department and background check which you must pass to be hired. This process can take up to a year. As far as negotiation go, the offers from the county were rejected because they were laughable. "

Get another job? wrote on Sep 25, 2007 1:13 AM:

" Well let's see the ones that are qualified and smart enough go to BPD, or another department. The ones that are not get hired at the county do a few years service here and then go to BPD. The ones left working here, well either are dedicated or this is better than being a small town part time cop. The County has the same problem in the jail. They want to pay nothing but expect to keep people here. As for those who say find a better job well its not and easy thing to do when everyone is out sourcing to other counties or hiring illegals to work for minimum wage. Last I heard State Farm was cutting back on hiring and Mitsubishi cut there work force down by several thousand. So tell me again where these Officers are supposed to go find a better job at that pays more. Oh and one last thing the retirement plan is a state plan called IMRF. Look it up, its not a 401k and it is a bad deal! "

JD to: To JD wrote on Sep 23, 2007 8:14 PM:

" Staff shortages are usually die to lacking the budget to hire, not having no one to hire. Demanding wages above fair is a two edged sword. It might make your life away from the job a bit easier, but at the cost of increasing your job demands because the budget does not allow for more staff to be hired. I know of people looking for work as officers, but most departments are not hiring. So there are people out there to fill the roles, it is just greed from those in the roles preventing it. Sorry, you will not find any sympathy from me. "

To JD wrote on Sep 23, 2007 5:16 PM:

" They cant even get enough people on a list to fill the current positions and no no Law Enforcement officer that I know would not "hold people's safety hostage" to work a deal or get a better contract. This will all work out in the end. October is just around the corner. "

To Big Brother wrote on Sep 23, 2007 5:10 PM:

" You cant fool me! You've got to be a county board member. They are the only ones that think this highly of them selves. Good civil servants please. You people crack me up. Oh well this is tipical at any negotiation it just happened to be more public this time.... Keep posting, I need a good laugh.... "

Big Brother wrote on Sep 23, 2007 1:31 PM:

" BILLYBOB is right. You have a designated union to negotiate a contract for you. They have failed you, not the county board. Your own negotiators refused to place an offer to the rank and file for a vote. Now they urge you to do informational pickets. How is this negotiating in good faith? I call it an attempt to bully county board members and disrupt the process. Some of us see the truth behind the unions shameful tactics. No one wants to deny you a deserved increase in pay but berating good civil servants is not the way to get it. "

JD: To JD wrote on Sep 22, 2007 10:47 PM:

" Your post shows how the unions attempt to scare people into paying not just a fair wage, but one much more than fair. Your post speaks of trying to hold people's safety hostage to extort more money than you are actually worth. Trust me, if they fired all the current officers, there would be more in line for the current pay. Trust me, if you were so special you could not be replaced, then you would be able to receive your 'fair wages' no problem. You obviously think you are worth alot more than everyone else thinks you are worth. I will go with the majority of the opinion in this case. "

Too bad... wrote on Sep 21, 2007 1:18 PM:

" ...we can't take money from the Normal Police Department and give it to the McLean County sheriff department. I'm not sure what Normal police officers make, but I'm sure it's to much. After all, when all that you job entails is arresting people for public urination and breaking up parties, well, anyone with an eight grade education can do that. "

to jd wrote on Sep 21, 2007 2:38 AM:

" if you dont want to pay the wage i ask then dont call me... i wont be there "

to billybob wrote on Sep 21, 2007 2:32 AM:

" sounds like your on that county board.. go back to your cubical and cuddel our last mayor she needs it.. "

get a grip wrote on Sep 20, 2007 1:41 PM:

" get a grip i hope some thing happens to all of you that think the deputies are "crying" or don't deserve a raise and when you need them they dont have the resources to help your sorry butt's. but undoubtedly they will do everything they can to help you, its called pride obviously you are to stupid to understand it. MORONS "

To Billy Bob wrote on Sep 20, 2007 7:08 AM:

" You've got to be kidding or you are a county board member. I wonder how many comments the board has posted. I wouldn't put it past them.. "

BILLY BOB wrote on Sep 19, 2007 9:58 PM:

" How dumb do you think the public is? If the County Board slated an informational picket against the Illinois Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 176 as being unfair in their demand for unrealistic increases in pay and benifits you would file charges with the Illinois labor board for unfair business practices. You are simply using the informational picket to subvert the negotiation process and attempt to extort sympathy from the public. If your negotiation team is unable to negotiate acceptable terms then use the arbitration venue. Slandering the County Board and its members is not the right course. "

To Bacon wrote on Sep 19, 2007 7:50 PM:

" I'm So glad you love your job, it is rare in this day and age to enjoy what you do. By the way I haven't left work, I am still working. It was a informational picket... I'm not even a Deputy lets just say Black and White..... "

Anti-Union wrote on Sep 19, 2007 7:28 PM:

" I'm generally anti-union, but I'm pro-common-sense. If you want to reduce turnover and have an experienced, competent sheriffs department, you need to pay a decent wage. Many of you are saying "if you don't like it, get a different job". Well that's exactly what they're doing, and we're paying for it. We lose experienced law enforcement professionals, and then the county has to find, hire, and train new ones. Then as soon as they're competent, they leave for greener pastures and we start the process over. Sounds stupid to me. I'd rather pay a little more, keep the wheat, discard the chaff, and have the best force we can find! "

JD wrote on Sep 19, 2007 6:47 PM:

" It is simple economics. If the pay is too low, than go to another job. If they can not find people to work for the wages offered, they will either have to increase the wages or shut the service down (which is not a viable option). This occurs without the need for unions. Unions are not about getting what is fair anymore, it is about getting as much as they can. I know this sounds harsh, but it is the reality of economics. People are not entitled to a job at a wage of their choosing. "

Bacon wrote on Sep 19, 2007 6:35 PM:

" I am sure you do love your job. Yes, I love my job also. In my job, I don't need a union to run my life. So, do your job and close your mouths. "

observation wrote on Sep 19, 2007 5:16 PM:

" The problem with the revolving door syndrome is that the MCSP has lost 18 people in the last 12 years or so, most of those coming in the last 5 years. That is a lot of experience that is leaving. So a situation is created where new hires are constantly having to be trained and then gain the experience. The people who have left for other police jobs are not only taking the experience they had when leaving, they are taking away the experience they have learned since then and would have been able to use at the MCSP. If the pay was enough to keep that experience at the MCSP, the citizens would benefit from much more professional and experienced deputies. "

Union Proud wrote on Sep 19, 2007 4:59 PM:

" If you are willing to work for pennies move to China, if not stand up for yourself. There is nothing wrong with picketing for your own working rights. "

Voncina wrote on Sep 19, 2007 3:24 PM:

" Good job leaning against that sign guys, kind of reminds me of other workers in govt. jobs holding up a shovel. Are they picketing for day care or what? Why is that kid there? "

To To Revolving Door wrote on Sep 19, 2007 3:19 PM:

" I have never heard of an attrition rate being reported by decade. I have only heard of attrition rates being reported as an annualized number, in this case 20ish of 50ish leave over a period of 10 years is 20 leaving of 50 annual opportunities to leave or 500 over 10 years is 4 percent. An attrition rate of 40 percent would mean that they are hiring 20 new officers per year, and I doubt they are doing that. "

To perfect opportunity wrote on Sep 19, 2007 2:44 PM:

" I agree with you! Emery's agenda seems to only benefit him or his chosen ones. His lack of willingness to stand up for his Lt.s is really very, very sad to say the least. That smile and carismatic personality tells it all. I am just glad he is not the one out there defending us. "

please wrote on Sep 19, 2007 1:34 PM:

" I wish those deputies would look at what a soldier gets paid. They complain about it being dangerous work please it's mclean county !!!! I can't remember when the last time a police officer was seriously injured in the line of duty around this area. I went to Iraq and got paid decent money but it didn't compensate for the time and life or death situations we dealt with on a daily basis. "

To: Revolving door wrote on Sep 19, 2007 1:32 PM:

" the attrition rate is closer to 40%. The patrol force is only about 50 officers. The sad this is the loss of experience, on any given night on midnight shift you may have a total of 2 years experience among 4 officers, that is not safe. "

TO BACON wrote on Sep 19, 2007 1:17 PM:

" Just remember, we are just doing our jobs when you get a ticket or you get hauled to JAIL. By the way I love my job. Do you love yours? "

Bacon wrote on Sep 19, 2007 12:21 PM:

" Do your jobs and close your mouths. "

To Paladin wrote on Sep 19, 2007 11:53 AM:

" ......what? "

Paladin wrote on Sep 19, 2007 10:30 AM:

" ...uh, Normal PD and Bloomington PD are municipal, not county. Losing personnel to better-paid departments? Tough luck. You SHOULD be crowing, that you train people to go on to bigger and better things. Instead, you cry in your pretzels. Want better money? Go private. The State is broke, so the County doesn't have all the money it wants. Big shock. Do your time, and transfer. That's what revolving doors are all about. Still beats McDonalds... Did anyone mention that most of the county is rural? Hmmm. So we should be talking about salaries of rural counties, not municipalities, then? Gosh. Hope the union gets the pay cut they so dearly want... They are all heroes. Whoopie. So's my pizza delivery boy. He has CPR / AED certification, too, but doesn't carry a gun. "

To: To: to Oh Geez wrote on Sep 19, 2007 9:55 AM:

" Did you not get what I said? It is because of the Unions that non-union jobs offer higher wages and benefits. They have to compete with the union wages, so they offer as much now. If it weren't for the current unions these non-union jobs would offer nothing. Corporate America does not care about the little working man (or woman).....the Unions do. As for the factory jobs going overseas.....I feel it is a disaster to our country's economic well-being. We are losing jobs because people are willing to work for pennies a day....not because the unions want too much! Unions just want a fair, living wage and decent work environment.....and as a worker I feel I deserve it, when the CEO of my company is bringing home Millions of dollars each year! "

Been There wrote on Sep 19, 2007 9:20 AM:

" I have been in law enforcement for over 30 years and I knew going into this profession that I would never be rich (in money). I chose this career because I wanted to do something that would have a direct impact on the community I worked in. I am rich in many other ways, making great friends in law enforcement and in these communities. That being said, I support MCSD on having an informational picket and I think your wages should be comparable to like counties, not Bloomington or Normal. Please take heed that your work is appreciated by most of the residents of McLean County, and hopefully they will contact their county board member representing them and let their support be known. Good luck! "

Revolving Door wrote on Sep 19, 2007 8:49 AM:

" The FOP is saying that the department is a revolving door, and that is part of the problem. But the numbers that I have seen in the media yesturday and today look a lot more like a 4% attrition rate, which actually sounds pretty good to me. Am I missing something "

Stephanie L Simpson wrote on Sep 19, 2007 8:45 AM:

" Former Bloomington Resident..."As the widow of a former McLean County Sheriff's Deputy I support the McLean County Sheriff's Deputies 100%. My late husband was an officer with the Sheriff's Department for 20 years before he passed away in 1991. He was also President of the FOP Lodge 176 for two years and worked very hard to upgrade the salary and benefits for the other officers. He knew he would not benefit from the upgrades but he was always looking out for his "Brother Officers" These men and women put their lives on the line for us every day. WE SHOULD APPRECIATE WHAT THEY DO and upgrade their salaries. When you see an officer THANK HIM OR HER FOR KEEPING YOU SAFE. The County Board needs to get with the program !!" "

The officers are great wrote on Sep 19, 2007 8:43 AM:

" And I agree that they are doing what they do out of a spirit of public service. I also believe that they deserve a good living wage. But I think that this story lacks for some important facts that people should know before they take sides. Facts like, the state mandated pension plan requires a 22% of compensation contribution from the county. Facts like, the rank and file didn't even have a chance to vote on the last offer from the County. I am not sure that these officers are not just pawns in a larger game being played by the statewide FOP as they are negotiating multiple contracts accross the state right now, and they NEED a big win to use as an example while negotiating with the other counties. "

To Mizer: wrote on Sep 19, 2007 8:33 AM:

" Every one of those officers used their vacation/time to stand up for their rights. "

To Me: wrote on Sep 19, 2007 8:30 AM:

" Any who would you call when YOUR butt needs help if they did quit. Would you step up and take on their job? I don't think so. "

To Reader: wrote on Sep 19, 2007 8:27 AM:

" Respect starts at home. You teach your children and they teach there. Do you do a job where you get spit on, cussed at, some times hit or shot at? They do not know what they are getting themselves into when they go into a situation, but every one on the outside can always do it better. Get up and make a difference instead of complaining about how they do there job. There are a few bad cops out there, but that is a minority and not a majority. When I hear a parent tell their child that if they don't behave they'll call the police. My husband hears that daily when in uniform. Who will they turn to when they need help. This is where the respect needs to start. "

THOSE WHO DON'T BELIEVE THEY DESERVE THE PAY wrote on Sep 19, 2007 8:14 AM:

" I am a law enforcement household, do you know what its like not knowing from one shift to the next as to whether your spouse or father of your children is coming home or you will get the knock on the door from your husbands department or worse yet, the coroner. My family has lived with this life for 17 years, because my husband was brave enough to step up. He goes places that you people would never go in the broad daylight with all the lights on and he goes in in the middle of the night to PROTECT & SERVE you. He deserves to get equal pay. I have had to deal with the department at my door and the very life goes out of you. Thank god he was only hurt and not killed. You people take for granted what is expected from my husband and the other brave men & women who protect and serve. You expect them to be there when you call when you feel you are in danger and they don't hesitate to respond. PAY THEM FOR A JOB YOU WOULDN'T DO! "

To White Lightning wrote on Sep 19, 2007 8:11 AM:

" You might want to check your statistics on how many deputies are covered by "Union" and not "the Man. " The police unions are widley used the FOP is 325,000 strong & PBPA is over 200,000 strong & NAPO has 238,000 strong. This is nationwide and not counting many other national police unions. I believe this is the norm and not the exception that police unions band together for fair salaries. PAY THEM FOR THE SECURITY THAT YOU PEOPLE RELISH IN!!!!!!!!!!! "

To Livingston County wrote on Sep 19, 2007 7:38 AM:

" Livingston County has a population less than the town of Normal. They are the 4th larges county in the state. And they start out at $28,250 a year. "

County resident wrote on Sep 19, 2007 7:32 AM:

" I am not a Deputy and you will see me support them.. Not alot of defending just support. Get the facts right before you post. "

Leland Lesher wrote on Sep 19, 2007 7:17 AM:

" Thank you, County Deputies for the jobs you do with low pay and low respect. If I were on the County Board, you all could count on my vote to give you equitable pay and benefits. I have been in your shoes and know how hard you work and the risks you take daily to keep the citizens of McLean County safe. The McLean County Board needs to come into the 21st Century of professional law enforcement officers at County level. "

Perfect Opportunity wrote on Sep 19, 2007 6:44 AM:

" Emery had the perfect opportunity to step up to the plate and state to the Pantagraph and the county board that his depuites are under paid. He could have also told the public his Lt.s are under paid. He didnt. This just shows you he is just another bulls*&^% with his own agenda and could care less about the people who work in his department. "

For Your Info wrote on Sep 19, 2007 6:41 AM:

" Would now be a bad time to mention that the Normal FireFighters have been working WITHOUT a contract since April, 2007?? That means every call they have been on to save your sorry butts that are non-union supporters should have been ignored. But, because they love their jobs they - like the cops - serve you regardless of race, creed, color, religion, or educational level. "

Oh? wrote on Sep 19, 2007 6:24 AM:

" I thought that MCSD had a reserve program, that supplied a trained, armed volunteer force to bolster the slim ranks of officers on the road??? As opposed to putting one deputy in harm's way our in the boondocks, you'd have two "officers". That free back-watching has got to count for something, or don't they do that anymore? "

funding wrote on Sep 19, 2007 5:41 AM:

" the county board would have money to pay the deputies if they would cut waste. start with the prosecutors who work three days a week and never go to court. "

to: work? wrote on Sep 18, 2007 11:55 PM:

" Can you back up your accusations with facts? If so, please do. "

PD Widow wrote on Sep 18, 2007 10:47 PM:

" I have not ever seen a county so unsupportive of the very people that protect you every day. You should all be ashamed!! These guys go to work every day not knowing if they are going to get to see their wife or children at the end of their shift as today maybe the day they get shot or killed protecting YOU and all you can do is complain and don't think they deserve a raise or fair pay. You will complain about how lazy and what a terrible job they do but yet when you need help you do not think twice before dialing 911. These guys are here to protect your back not kiss it!!!!! For those who complain of staying to long at a gas station ever thought maybe they are watching YOU to see why you are hanging around so long, how else would you know how long they are there. You want better protection then start helping and supporting your law enforcement. You just might be surprised what happens if you show them a little respect and support and work together. "

work? wrote on Sep 18, 2007 10:28 PM:

" These people are not doing what they're being paid to do - plain and simple. Yet, they continue to whine and demand better treatment and benefits. Meanwhile, the community is suffering due to the lack of activity on these people's part. Perhaps if they got paid based on what they actually do instead of what they're simply expected to do but don't actually do - maybe then they would earn their pay. Until then, suck it up and live like the rest of us - getting screwed by the government left, right, up, down and from all angles. "

TO Mizer: wrote on Sep 18, 2007 10:04 PM:

" The officers shown picketing were holding what is called an information picket. Police and Firefighters can't just walk out of their jobs and picket. I passed the Law and Justice Center this morning and saw them. Later in the morning, I spoke to a deputy and asked what was going on and he told me it was a contract issue. Also, Normal PD typically has 5-10 officers on a shift. Bloomington typically has 10-12. It may seem like more on Friday and Saturday nights because the guys patrolling downtown are hirebacks for that specific purpose and are being paid (are you ready for this word taxpayers?) OVERTIME. "

Show me the money... wrote on Sep 18, 2007 10:00 PM:

" Let your county representative to vote for the pay increase they deserve it. These folks are incrediable professionals that many times have part time jobs to make ends meet. The do a fantastic job from thier involvement in Task Force 6 and other local programs. Thank you for a job well done and I will be letting Matt Sorenson and Rick Dean know that I appreciate the protection that they provide! Thanks again - "

reader wrote on Sep 18, 2007 9:37 PM:

" To how sad:When they start showing the public some respect then they'll get some "

"how sad" is right on wrote on Sep 18, 2007 9:18 PM:

" Excellent comment. I couldn't have said it any better. "

how sad wrote on Sep 18, 2007 8:32 PM:

" I am just appalled at this day and age when people can be so ungrateful and disrespectful to the men and women on duty. These people are out there protecting all of us day and night yet they don't even get the common courtesy of a thank you. Instead they are ridiculed for holding an informational picket...which is just that, folks: a peaceful demonstration to inform the community about the lack of funds to back up their work. Many of the people who wrote comments are misinformed and need to get their facts straight before writing. The men and women took their own vacation, sick days, or days off to do this picket. They are not on strike and they are all still working. I think you'd change your tune if you needed their help one night and they were not able to get the appropriate backup to your home due to the funding. Most of the deputies I've talked to love the job and take it very seriously. They are simply asking for the support that they need to do the job. The county has the funds, just not the motivation. "

Just wondering wrote on Sep 18, 2007 8:14 PM:

" I think there is a lot of the County Police watching the post today? Lot of defending going on. "

Live in a box wrote on Sep 18, 2007 7:57 PM:

" Quit living in a box! If you had any knowledge the MCSP is very underpaidl Many MCSP have gone to the BPD. If you live outside of city limits, BPD or NPD is NOT going to help you. These officers deserve a decent wage. I grew up in a law enforcement family and you have no clue what it feels like to wonder if your parent is going to come home when there shift is done or if one of you has decided to kill my mom, dad, brother, sister, aunt, uncle or other significant family member because Joe Blow citizen lives in a box! I do not work for the county, but I do drive a company vehicle during the day and my company does pay for my gas so guess it is what you ask for when interviewing for a job! You all are clueless. Good Luck MCSP!!! "

White Lightning wrote on Sep 18, 2007 7:52 PM:

" Ah the midwest...down south, where the Sheriff IS the MAN, deputies serve at the pleasure of the elected Sheriff and things like unions just dont happen. Being a Deputy Sheriff is FAR more prestigeous than being a city cop, and the jurisdiction is a lot more, salary is secondary to pride of service. As for the National Gurard soldier picketing in uniform, his company commander should article 15 his sorry behind YESTERDAY. "

JMK wrote on Sep 18, 2007 7:42 PM:

" Or, instead of picketing, they could quit and go work for the city if it is so much better. That's how a free market works. If there are so many (qualified) county officers wanting to work for the city, then the city wages are probably high, not the other way around. "

to: to oh Geez wrote on Sep 18, 2007 7:34 PM:

" Your arguement is correct, we would not have all these things if not for the Union. What the union needs to realize though is that at some point it is hurting itself. What has happened to all those factory jobs that the unions were founded in. They have all gone overseas to cheaper labor, because the unions were to selfish to know when good enough was good enough, but they don't. There is comming a point in time when the union mentality needs to change and realize that people are not behind them and that the non-unions are offering just as much to their employees "

To: To Consider This wrote on Sep 18, 2007 7:30 PM:

" What part of take home squad cars are cheaper didn't you understand. Most of the squads are driven around the clock, by all three shifts, especially the nice new cars. They wear out in about two and a half years and need to be replaced. When you send the car home with the deputy, he is responsible for the care and service of the car. It's driven about one third of the time compaired to the fleet cars, and can last for five to six years. There are some ISP cars that are over ten years old, still running and in service. ISP has take home cars, always have and always will. And do you really think the deputies would take their family to Steak and Shake in squad car so he could use the counties gas? Use your head and think about it. You make think it is a wastefull perk, but you also don't know what your talking about. "

The GI is: wrote on Sep 18, 2007 7:26 PM:

" The photo of the GI is Deputy Hofmann who we miss very much. Deputy Hofmann is serving in Iraq. Deputy Hofmann wanted to participate, this was the only way he could. Thankyou, to all those who support your Mclean County Deputies. "

Educated wrote on Sep 18, 2007 7:21 PM:

" It seems the county needs to be a little more educated before making judgements. From what I've been told the county isn't asking to make the same as Bloomington, because the work is different, they are asking for a fair raise. The deputies all used their own time to do an informational picket. The county is said to be sitting well financially. If you see a county car sitting at the gas stations, it may be just a guess, but they do deserve breaks when they can get them. I believe protecting people's lives and all the other bull they deal with deserves more money. "

Me wrote on Sep 18, 2007 7:15 PM:

" They could do the community a real service and quit. "

reader wrote on Sep 18, 2007 7:14 PM:

" Why don't they so their job and then will talk about more money. "

compare wrote on Sep 18, 2007 7:09 PM:

" Mr. Sorenson if your words are right then how come our County administrator makes more than Bloomingtons City Manager, what is the pay difference between County board members and city counsel members. Many years ago the County recognized that the nursing home staff was underpaid and they were losing good people, so what did they do? they raised their wages. Evidently the county does not care about the Deputies. "

Re: Taking squad cars home wrote on Sep 18, 2007 7:07 PM:

" The primary reason most counties (and state police, I think) allow their officers to take squad cars home is to reduce transit time lost from being able to patrol. If a deputy lived in Heyworth, and was assigned the southern part of McLean County to patrol that day, he or she could just get in the car and sign on for shift, instead of driving into town and then right back out. What do you think that does to county coverage of outlying areas at shift change? "

to: observation wrote on Sep 18, 2007 6:53 PM:

" it is because you live in a Repub, GOPer, anti-union county. The population buys into the GOD, GUNS and GAYS propaganda that is spewed by the anti-labor folks so you get what you deserve ! "

To Consider This wrote on Sep 18, 2007 6:27 PM:

" It's all part of the job just like my employer can offshore my job or some crack pot employee comes in and starts shooting. If they don't like the pay or benefits then go elsewhere. Taking home vehicles is why our taxes are high. Like the county highway dept taking home vehicles and using them for personal use. Gee I wish my employer would do that or just pay for the gasoline. I say let's outsource their jobs to people who can get the job done. How about that! "

To: Consider This.... wrote on Sep 18, 2007 6:24 PM:

" Nobody was being disrespectful to the GI in the picture just asking a question. I will ask another question... where is you manners punk! Signed Harv "

Deputies should be paid more wrote on Sep 18, 2007 6:07 PM:

" Notice that these deputies are on an "informational" picket. Per the rules of government employment, they are forbidden to go on an actual strike. If the county sheriff deputies were to strike, law and order would break down overnight and whatever salary demands they had would be met overnight. So the low salaries are a result of their restrictions on not being able to strike. I think based on that, arbitration to boost salaries is in order. "

to Sorensen and board wrote on Sep 18, 2007 6:01 PM:

" You said you can’t compare a Bloomington Police Officers pay to a McLean County Deputy pay because of tax funding issues. I don’t agree with your statement, but for the sake argument, I’ll buy you logic. Why don’t you explain how other county governments seem to be able to pay their deputies more that our county deputies? As far as the take home car issue. Several years ago, the county was presented with a plan that would save the county money by assigning deputies take home squad cars. Their response, we don’t/won’t spend the money necessary to make the initial purchase, even thought it will save the county tax payers money EVERY year in the future. And by the way, your “nice offers on the table” are what has put the deputies so far behind year after year after year. "

Bottom line wrote on Sep 18, 2007 5:45 PM:

" They are overpaid and have way to much power. Police are not held accountable for their actions and we should reward "police state policies"? Reduce police funding and lets put money towards education and better health care. End fascists exceptance. "

what? wrote on Sep 18, 2007 5:36 PM:

" I put my life on the line every day - I'm not a cop, firefighter, emt responder, etc. Screw the whining government workers. "

Consider This wrote on Sep 18, 2007 5:11 PM:

" That guy in the picture is a McLean County Deputy, who's currently activated with the Army Reserves and serving dangerously, but proudly in IRAQ! How about showing him some respect. "

to: change for a dollar wrote on Sep 18, 2007 5:08 PM:

" Which deputies were "crying"? I must have missed that. "

john wrote on Sep 18, 2007 5:06 PM:

" Theese men and women put there lives on the line for us everyday i don't see any of you on here doing that. There are so few county cops and a big area to cover. Mclean county is the largest county in Illinois. There few to go around. They deserve more than 26000 a year. Come on people it's worth more than that to put up with all the stupid people in this county. "

To:Consider This wrote on Sep 18, 2007 4:58 PM:

" I don't believe any officer should take the car home! It belongs to the city, county, state not the officer. This is the problem with the officers and society. They continue to want more every day! I don't know many jobs that get a car to take home with them. "

Livingston wrote on Sep 18, 2007 4:37 PM:

" County only starts at 26000 "

Harv wrote on Sep 18, 2007 4:26 PM:

" Watch the video thats with this article. Why? Is the soldier(Ill. National Guard) standing in a picket line in INIFORM? Get in your civies GI! "

Change for a dollar wrote on Sep 18, 2007 4:06 PM:

" obviously you do not know how contract negotiations work, and since the police by law can't strike this is their only option. With your remarks and obvious mis-understanding of labor, I hope you get someone to negotiate for you. Stupid is as stupid does! "

Consider This wrote on Sep 18, 2007 4:03 PM:

" McLean County Sheri'ffs' Office... is one of only 2 counties out of 102 that doesn't have take home cars. A perk that is estimated to be worth almost 7 to 8 thousand dollars a year. Also the pay is way under other local sheriff's office's like Tazewell, Sangamon, Kankakee, Grundy, Champaign. McLean has all four of those beat in population and size! At the end of the day you have to realize this... these guys are going to work and putting a bullet proof vest on for about 17 dollars an hour!!! Hate to say that, but most of the people commenting on here are driving to State Farm or Country Companies everyday and relishing in there 20+ dollar an hour job and they don't have to worry about possibly not going home to there families at the end of the night. It's so sad, that some people can't just realize that a better paid officer is a better trained, motivated, and caring officer. "

Change for a dollar wrote on Sep 18, 2007 3:57 PM:

" What a joke!!! You have a union to negotiate your contract for you. Sit down and negotiate. Instead you picket and cry about your plight. Your union officials have failed to negotiate a contract with raises for you. You need to elect new leadership not cry on the streets about how unfair the county administration is. Picket the union hall for your officials to do something other than collect your dues and go on trips. "

thankful wrote on Sep 18, 2007 3:42 PM:

" I am appreciative of the job that these deputies do, If you ever talk to one, you would find out that what they do is very dangerous. While a city officer could have back up a few minutes away, county officers might have to wait 20-30 minutes. Is that worth less money? I think its time that the public stand behind those that protect us and that the county realize how valuable an asset our police are and pay them comparable money. "

fiveo wrote on Sep 18, 2007 3:31 PM:

" The bottom line people is that the sheriff's department does their best to cover the biggest land mass county in the state with low staffing and lower pay levels. The deputies have continued to do their job, other than the ones that have left for higher wages and have never complained to the public. They are only asking to be close to the county's in which they are compared to. They are not asking for the highest wages. They deserve to have the money and this county is full of it. People may say that things happen more in town then they do in the county. This may be correct, but it only takes one traffic stop to go south or someone in one of the small towns to loose their minds and the danger is much higher for the deputy who is on his own until his backup arrives. Not two minutes later as if you were in bloomington, but 10 to 15 minutes later. Think about it. "

yo wrote on Sep 18, 2007 3:21 PM:

" the city police have to deal with drunks, etc continually for their pay. the county deps. can be found setting at freedom station on US 150 and Towanda Barnes Rd over night because they have nothing to do. often you can find them setting at the sheriffs office. in the working world you get paid for what you do and you do less then the city boys. if you want more pay join the city police force, they could use some help. "

to: To Picketers wrote on Sep 18, 2007 3:19 PM:

" Why is it "ridiculous"? They're not blocking anyone from going about their business. They're not smashing windows and vandalizing property. They are letting the public know what is happening. Were it not for the pickets, I would not have known about this. There's absolutely nothing wrong with what they're doing. "

Real Issue wrote on Sep 18, 2007 3:15 PM:

" With only 3 - 4 per shift it shows the need to have personal protection. Just remember...The police will help( when they show up 20 - 30 minutes later ) identify your body. "

Country Girl wrote on Sep 18, 2007 3:15 PM:

" I don't see what the problem with the picket is? It's an informational picket. They are doing this on their own time. They have given the County long enough to come up with a decent contract. Because they are police officers they can not go on strike. Perhaps the county is taking advantage of this. I don't know any of these officers or even live in McLean County. This is just an observation. "

To Picketers wrote on Sep 18, 2007 2:56 PM:

" This is just ridiculous. If the job you do is important and you value your job and care about people, go back to work and work out your requests with the County some other way...media or something. "

Why Not? wrote on Sep 18, 2007 2:45 PM:

" Any individual or organization willing to take public work-related grievances should be willing to publicly answer the following questions: What is your current rate of pay? How many hours a week do you work? How long have you been with your organization? How long do you intend to stay? What is the personal investment in formal education/training you have had to incur to obtain/retain your position and do you intend to do more in the future? What is the value of your benefits package? What do you anticipate to be the value of your company-contributed retirement package (% of full salary) at retirement and the number of years you have worked towards this? The reasons you should have a guaranteed job for life? Has the job/position been forced on you and if so, the circumstances involved? No disrespect intended to local law enforcement. I just find it incredible that media never asked these questions whether it's a corporate CEO or someone at the bottom of the professional food chain. "

WHAT A JOKE wrote on Sep 18, 2007 2:35 PM:

" This is a common thing among politics.It is a shame.Mclean county has the money to pay these officers.Lets not act like we do not have it.This is a shame on our public officials that we have elected.Look at what we pay these guys to go out and put there lifes on the line everyday.These are our husbands,wifes,uncles,aunts,sons,daughters We should back these deputies 100%.give them what they deserve. "

To sorry wrote on Sep 18, 2007 2:13 PM:

" How many calls does the State Police go on? What's their pay? You can't use call volume as a basis for pay in law enforcement. "

to opinion wrote on Sep 18, 2007 2:09 PM:

" the county deputies have huge area to cover compared to the city. If something goes wrong in bloomington or normal there will be back up there in a minute or two. If something happens to a deputy out in the county it could take 15 minutes to get there. My point is the risk they run is huge and they deserve every penny they earn. On top of this, as crazy as this sounds, the county is actually losing money by paying less. They pay a ton of money to send new deputies to the academy, then two years down the road the deputies transfer to bloomington or the state and the county has to pay for more people to go to the academy. The best thing the county could do is get competetive wages which will get the deputies to stick around longer. "

father was wrote on Sep 18, 2007 2:03 PM:

" My father was a deputy here in McLean county for 17 years. Granted the pay was not as high as Bloomington but you are basically rural coverage and county court. Look in the Illinois constitution. The sheriff is only responsible to maintain the jail and court . IT IS AN HONR AND PRIVILEDGE to be a county deputy. They pay is last. "

Good Job County wrote on Sep 18, 2007 1:51 PM:

" The deputies have every right to be picketing for higher wages...I mean who else in there right mind would be defending the lives of the same people as bloomington but would be getting paid 10,000 less? Doesn't make sense to me...Stand for what you believe in! "

The McLean County Board wrote on Sep 18, 2007 1:49 PM:

" IS shortchanging their deputies compared to similar counties in Illinois. A staple of working for a County (as I always learned) was take-home squad cars for instance. I was very surprised upon moving to McLean County and learning that was not the case here, especially considering how spread out the County towns are here and how many square miles the county is (biggest one in IL). It would be much better public service if deputies were ON duty as soon as they left their homes. They should at least be paid up to par with other counties of similar population and economic makeup (Champaign, Kankakee, etc.) "

Union Violation wrote on Sep 18, 2007 1:40 PM:

" Check out the bottom picture. Can 6-month-olds participate on the picket line? "

Today wrote on Sep 18, 2007 1:36 PM:

" Look at todays stats in the paper: Bloomington crimes 2,676 Normal crimes 1,692 ISU crime 285, Mclean County crime 258. Now by those figues who does the majority of work around here? Who does the least? The second highest [normal] has almost 1000 less! "

Comparables wrote on Sep 18, 2007 1:36 PM:

" When you consider the county's pay with their comparable counties (Champaign, Sangamon, Peoria) they are still way under paid. These are counties with similar populations, cost of living etc. That is what this is about, not comparing them to Bloomington or Normal. Cities always pay more, but comparable counties should pay a similar wage. "

sorry wrote on Sep 18, 2007 1:21 PM:

" umm not sure why the deputies are upset about. Unless they are the one's that could not get hired by city forces prior to becoming a county officer. Go to any other place in the country, CITY cops always make more money more COUNTY deputies, might you wonder why? Umm they answer alot more call than a deputy does. A city cop in a busy city (bloomington) will go to a more types of calls in one year than a deputy goes to in ten years. You do the math. These guys knew it may have been easier to get hired on by the county, the wages were just not going to be that high. "

interview wrote on Sep 18, 2007 1:19 PM:

" I have an interview with the merit commision tonight. I did notice that the starting pay is significantly lower than many other counties. I am actually on several different hiring lists and I would actually say that McLean county is the lowest salary of any position I have applied for. "

They knew what wrote on Sep 18, 2007 1:08 PM:

" they were going to be paid when they took the job. I had to move out all the way out to DC to get what I think I'm worth. "

To:In Support wrote on Sep 18, 2007 1:07 PM:

" I do thank your husband for serving our community. However, if he feels he is underpaid...tell him to find another job. I am sure there is someone willing to replace him. "

in support wrote on Sep 18, 2007 12:55 PM:

" As a family member of one of the deputies I can assure you they did not take time off work. Remember, deputies have different days off than the average Joe....my husband works on the weekend keeping our streets safe. For the record, "opinion," the county deputies not only drive to all the small towns in rural areas of the county, but they are also often called in to back up the Bloomington/Normal police so actually they have MORE obligations than if they were simply working in town. "

to mizer wrote on Sep 18, 2007 12:53 PM:

" These county employees had to take vacation or personal time to stand up for equal pay, which they should not have to do. "

Woodford Pundit wrote on Sep 18, 2007 12:48 PM:

" Noticeably lacking in the article is any mention of pensions. I think you'd find them pretty generous. "

what if... wrote on Sep 18, 2007 12:47 PM:

" You needed County Sheriff Deputy assistance and you lived in Cropsey and your closest County Deputy was in Weedman. It would take that officer 20 to 30 minutes at a Code run to reach your location. How about officer safety. Maybe an officer needs backup that is 30 minutes away. McLean County is the largest county in the state with 1200 square miles. I believe County Sheriff Deputies and Sergents deserve fair pay for the hard work they continue to do everyday. "

uh, well, wrote on Sep 18, 2007 12:01 PM:

" the deputies are unmotivated because of the low pay. the current sheriff does not help matters by keeping unqualified deputies untouchable as a reward for supporting him. "

Welcome to the club wrote on Sep 18, 2007 12:01 PM:

" I'm under paid in the position I'm in but I'm not out crying about it. The average starting pay in my line of work is several thousand more than what I'm making and I have years of experience. We all have the choice to find a new job with better pay, but the majority of us average workers are under paid. Welcome to the club. Life's not fair, get over it. "

Give me a break! wrote on Sep 18, 2007 11:57 AM:

" This is the largest county in Illinois (by sq. mi), and there are an average of 3 deputies working patrol? Come on. You people would be the first to complain when it takes them too long to respond to your barking dog complaint. They have to speed to even the most mundane calls, putting themselves and others at greater risk of car accidents. The deputies are lucky if a backup officer can get to them in time if something does happen. How many people own guns outside the city? I would say all of that puts them at GREATER risk than city officers. Oh, and to the whiners about running cars…how long does it take for the in car computer, radio, and camera to boot up when they start a car? Right…that’s more time off their response. Do any of you get a half hour break at work? Do you routinely have to skip your lunch to handle other people’s problems? Probably not. "

Everyone is effected wrote on Sep 18, 2007 11:56 AM:

" If it were not for unions pushing wages up to a fair rate and providing benefits for their employees other agencies would not have to do the same to compete. The standards are raising wages/standards through most fields and helping a lot of people. "

Why not? wrote on Sep 18, 2007 11:53 AM:

" These are employees who put their lives on the line to protect us. And, no offense but there is a lot of stupid out there. If I had to deal with that every day - I would certainly expect to be compensated similarily to someone else with the same responsibilities. Equal pay for equal work. "

..::mizer::.. wrote on Sep 18, 2007 11:51 AM:

" Looks like they can afford to skip work and complain...they make enough money to do that, then they are a-okay! "

Can't compare wrote on Sep 18, 2007 11:49 AM:

" Bloomington police who are busy all night sometimes to county deputies who cruise the country roads and get bored. They're totally different. I would bet on the weekend there's more calls in Bloomington than the county gets all month. Comparing other counties, Tazewell for instance, you have to consider more populated areas like East Peoria,Creeve Cour,Pekin,Morton,Washington,where there are much bigger cities than McLean county. "

Interesting wrote on Sep 18, 2007 11:48 AM:

" Maybe they should be happy that they have a job to picket. And as much as I'm all for law enforcement, these guys knew when they were hired on that the county doesn't pay anywhere near what Bloomington and Normal PDs pay. "

To Oh Geez wrote on Sep 18, 2007 11:42 AM:

" Do you realize that it is because of the Unions that you have a decent wage and work environment? Unions help drive the economy. If it weren't for the Unions higher wage and benefits, non-union employers would offer nothing. Who wants to work for $10 and hour when they can work Union for $20 and hour and get health benefits and a decent pension plan. It is because of the Unions that you have a 40 hour work week, paid medical and/or vacation time and a decent work environment. Thank your local Unions instead of bashing them. "

to oh geez wrote on Sep 18, 2007 11:27 AM:

" Union proud and taking it to the bank. "

to my opinion: wrote on Sep 18, 2007 11:27 AM:

" County cops work just as hard if not harder then city/town cops. A typical county shift will have 3 or 4 officers for the ENTIRE county. The city/town will have 15-20 officers per shift. Big difference. I hope the county cops get what they are asking for (as in higher wages!!) "

Fitz wrote on Sep 18, 2007 11:26 AM:

" Maybe if the deputies would shut off their squad cars when they are hanging out inside Caseys of FS Faststops for 1/2 hours at a time, there would be more money left in the budget for wages. "

County wrote on Sep 18, 2007 11:23 AM:

" Pays well just not what the city pays. I have a family and work at the county and we are all fine. Quit crying all the deputies do is patrol lilly towns and go to hucks. Oh yeah and bust the ever dangeous pot growers haha.. "

I would think wrote on Sep 18, 2007 11:16 AM:

" That you would want to pay the people who are taking the responsibility of our safety well. That is how you keep good officers on the job. "

WHY don't they... wrote on

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