Excerpts from Oaklawnleaf.com:
The recent arbitration case between the Village of Oak Lawn and the Oak Lawn Firefighters Union brought several disputed issues to light, but the most significant one—minimum manning—was decided in favor of the firefighters. Once again, the village lost its argument to reduce staffing levels in the fire department.
On January 1st, Arbitrator Steven M. Bierig issued a comprehensive 195-page decision that ruled in favor of the union on minimum manning and six other key issues. The village won on two points, while the final issue regarding out-of-state residency will be handled by the court in February.
Minimum manning has been a long-standing point of contention. Bierig emphasized that the burden of proof lies with the party seeking a change. He concluded that the village had not demonstrated that a reduction was necessary, and therefore, the union’s status quo proposal was upheld.
Bierig referenced a well-established three-part test used by arbitrators to evaluate major changes: 1) the old system failed as intended; 2) it caused operational or fairness issues; and 3) the opposing side refused to negotiate. In this case, none of these criteria were met.
The village argued that reducing staffing from 21 to 19 per shift would be more efficient and cost-effective. However, the arbitrator found that the current setup has functioned well for over 24 years. The union countered that reducing personnel could compromise safety and response time, especially in critical situations.
The union highlighted that having four firefighters on an engine allows for immediate action at a fire scene. If reduced to three, they would need two units to respond, which is less efficient. This could lead to delays and reliance on neighboring departments, putting residents at risk.
An expert witness testified that four firefighters are preferable for effective firefighting, even though some departments use fewer. The union also pointed out that the village's proposal was driven by financial concerns, not operational necessity.
Bierig rejected the village’s claim that the change was minor, calling it a “sea change†in staffing. He noted that the existing agreement was designed for safety and efficiency, and the village had not shown that it was failing.
The union won seven issues outright, while the village secured two. The remaining issue on out-of-state residency will be decided by the courts in February. Both parties accepted the wage proposal, and the union maintained the status quo on extra duty pay and responsibilities.
Thanks, Dan.
Ford Exhaust Modification
Introduction:
Exhaust modification is a popular practice among car enthusiasts who want to enhance the performance and sound of their vehicles. Ford, being one of the leading automobile manufacturers, offers a wide range of options for exhaust modification. This article aims to explore the various aspects of Ford exhaust modification, including the benefits, types, and considerations.
Benefits:
1. Improved Performance: Upgrading the exhaust system of a Ford vehicle can result in improved engine performance. By reducing backpressure, aftermarket exhaust systems allow the engine to breathe more freely, leading to increased horsepower and torque.
2. Enhanced Sound: Many car enthusiasts seek a more aggressive and sporty sound from their vehicles. Ford exhaust modification can help achieve this by replacing the stock exhaust system with a high-performance aftermarket one. These systems often feature larger diameter pipes and performance mufflers, resulting in a deeper and more resonant exhaust note.
3. Weight Reduction: Stock exhaust systems are generally heavy due to their construction materials. Upgrading to a lighter aftermarket exhaust system can reduce the overall weight of the vehicle, leading to improved handling and fuel efficiency.
Types of Exhaust Modification:
1. Cat-Back Exhaust System: This type of modification involves replacing the exhaust system from the catalytic converter to the rear of the vehicle. It allows for increased airflow and improved sound without affecting emissions or engine warranty.
2. Axle-Back Exhaust System: This modification replaces the exhaust system from the rear axle to the tailpipe. It offers similar benefits as a cat-back system but is less extensive and easier to install.
3. Headers: Upgrading the exhaust headers can significantly improve exhaust flow and performance. Headers replace the stock exhaust manifolds and are designed to optimize exhaust gas scavenging, resulting in increased horsepower and torque.
Considerations:
1. Legal Compliance: It is important to ensure that any modifications made to the Ford exhaust system comply with local laws and regulations. Some jurisdictions have noise restrictions and emission standards that need to be adhered to.
2. Warranty: Modifying the exhaust system may void the vehicle's warranty. It is advisable to check with the manufacturer or authorized dealers regarding the impact of modifications on warranty coverage.
3. Professional Installation: While some exhaust modifications can be done by enthusiasts with mechanical skills, it is recommended to have the installation performed by professionals. They have the necessary expertise and tools to ensure a proper fit and minimize the risk of damage to the vehicle.
Conclusion:
Ford exhaust modification offers a range of benefits for car enthusiasts, including improved performance, enhanced sound, and weight reduction. With options such as cat-back and axle-back systems, as well as headers, Ford owners have the opportunity to customize their vehicles to their liking. However, it is crucial to consider legal compliance, warranty implications, and professional installation to ensure a safe and satisfactory modification experience.
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