Ridgewood Board of Education Continues To Negotiate 'In Good Faith' On New Contract

The Ridgewood Board of Education the Ridgewood Education Association continue to negotiate ”in good faith” to try and resolve a ongoing contract dispute.

The contract between the board and the REA ended June 30. At their initial meeting in February, the REA did not agree with the board regarding health insurance premium contributions and proposed a reduction in what union members would contribute, a statement on the board’s website reads.

The board told the REA that it would not agree to change or reduce the amount contributed.

All public employees must contribute to their health benefits following Governor Christie approving a law commonly called Chapter 78. These contributions were to be phased in over four years. REA members completed their phase in on June 30.

The board and REA met four times in March and April and with a state-appointed mediator in May and June.

The sides last met June 2 for several hours but could not reach an agreement.

The negotiator deferred the talks to a state fact-finder who will attempt to get the sides to reach an agreement.