Len,
welcome aboard.
I can understand your desire not to post frequently since various folks would hold your posts as company policy versus personal opinion, but, lurking would probably give you a better idea of what concerns the crew force at any given time. And expose you to opinions that you probably rarely encounter at your level.
I would also submit to you that frequently the information that is shared in this forum is priceless. The shared experiences of people in bidding, and working with our current and previous contract have helped many individuals in their interactions with the company. Often a misunderstanding of the contract has been cleared up here, versus requiring other intervention.
One of the biggest losses to this forum was when TonyC was elected a rep and his postings have diminished accordingly.
While my name isn't my real name, it is only a PM away.
This LOA is of great concern to the more junior members of FedEx. While it is a minor improvement, in several ways, many of us feel like it establishes a poor precedent for future FDA growth and is insufficient given the productivity gains FedEx will enjoy with these two new domiciles. And, while many people are dogging BC, just as many people step up when someone steps beyond the line.
I am sure you are as cognizant of the deterioration of the BUS lines just as much as the SIG is. While I don't have the economic models available, it seems as if the company is striving to fly to the limits of the contract and raising the individual productivity high enough to make the "gains" of our recent contract essentially revenue neutral. (certainly well within the rights of the company to do so). But given that, why would you expect us to give the company a blank check on the FDAs simply because my NC speaks for me. They did negotiate, I find it lacking, and I am voting no.
There is something that you can help with though. Both the company and the MEC have assured us that a thorough site survey of both FDA's was accomplished and that sufficient housing (at the limited reimbursement rate), medical care, and schooling are available. So, perhaps you could use your position to post that information on P.F.C.
Surely there was a powerpoint presentation created to outline the key points for you to communicate.