Originally Posted by 80ktsClamp

It was a public update... so here it is:

MOUNTAIN TIMES

Members of Council 81,

Yesterday, MEC officer elections were held and Captain Bill Bartels was elected to replace Captain John Malone as the MEC chairman.

I voted for Captain Bartels, while Nate voted for Captain Malone. It was a difficult decision, but one that I feel was correct and necessary. My vote was based on several factors:

* I have a fiduciary responsibility in representing you. My resolve to meet that responsibility was continuously challenged by an administration that on many occasions failed to provide me requested information to base decisions on.

* We (the LEC reps) were told to use polling data until it didn’t align with the narrative coming from the administration and the Negotiating Committee.

* Moves were made during negotiations that were outside the direction of the MEC body. When we attempted to stop the “bleeding,” we were accused of micromanaging. When we gave leeway, we surrendered contract language.

* We were told that the AIPs were not final, but when they didn’t meet your needs, as evidenced by polling, we were told we couldn’t change them.

* I’ll describe John’s leadership style as autocratic. The MEC chairman, by Policy Manual, works for the MEC. I felt that the process leading up to the TA was more of a manipulation to get us where the chairman thought we should go.

The input I have received from pilots post-ratification overwhelmingly support the theory that although the TA was voted in by a margin of 82 percent, that percentage does not mean that all those pilots agree with the way we came about getting a TA. Many feel as if there was absolutely no viable alternative and voted accordingly. My decision to support a change of leadership was based on my belief that a more involved MEC is necessary. A majority of MEC representatives came to the same conclusion. This was not a decision I took lightly. I ask that you support Captain Bartels and his team. We will move forward conducting your business.

Fraternally,
Mike Poggi
Chairman, Capt Rep