Jim Morrissette's proposal for an “Ithaca Compact”

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Feb.14, 1987

Mr. Bill Bennett
Citizens Savings Bank
The Commons

Ithaca, New York 14850

Mr. John Gutenberger, Mayor
10€ East Green Street
ithaca, New York 14850

Dear John and Bill; ;
Enclosed is a proposal which is intended to reflect our last discussion as

well as discussions I've since had with members of the Labor Coalition. Note that
I've taken the liberty of using the term "Compact" as I felt that the spirit and
intent of our effort was indeed very similar to the effort on the state level. I
have also borrowed very heavily from the state language in my short introduction
in the belief that is is healthy to emphasize similarities where they exist on the
state and local level. I'd like to know what you think about this.

I have made the following adjustments in the proposal:

1. I've made it clear that the advance notice is operable only in the lease
agreements with businesses in the industrial parks.

2. I have omitted "will be sought to sit on TCAD" for simpler language which
reflects our unanimous agreement and committment to this idea.

3. If improvements in the Employee Assistance Program is to be accepted in
lieu of legislation it is felt that some kind of reporting mechanism to
keep the City informed is appropiate.

4. The Labor Coalition cannot commit $1000 while also providing employment
benefits, therefore we propose that the City be the employer. The Labor
Coalition would hire the staff person as well as provide office space and
facilities as well as direct supervision.

A. In addition to the supervision provided by the Labor Coalition
this section provides for oversight mechanisms for the other
interested parties.

B. C. and D. remain unchanged.

E. This is the section that you gentlemen had concerns over and

I've modified the language somewhat. However the Labor Coalition feels very
strongly that in order for the staff person to have maximun effectiveness

and for this Compact to be sucessful, organized labor must play a prominent,
visible, and active role in the process. It is felt that all parties must
acknowledge and accept this prominent role of labor - not only because we

are more than willing to do the required work, but also because it was Labor's

determination to solve these difficult economic problems which acted as a
catylist to all of our efforts.

I'm looking forward to discussing these matters with you. Until then, please
dont hesitate to call me with any questions you may have.

Your Friend,

2 eS RE