Firefighters, city to argue pay before arbitrator

By JOHN HOWELL
Posted 2/4/20

By JOHN HOWELL While the city and the Warwick Firefighters signed a three-year contract with a no pay increase in the first year last week, the parties will be back before an arbitrator this Friday to argue over pay. The issue is not how much of a pay

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Firefighters, city to argue pay before arbitrator

Posted

While the city and the Warwick Firefighters signed a three-year contract with a no pay increase in the first year last week, the parties will be back before an arbitrator this Friday to argue over pay.

The issue is not how much of a pay increase they get in the current fiscal year that started on July 1, 2019 – that’s zero – but rather what it should have been on July 1, 2018. How that plays out will determine the base pay for the current year and give every firefighter a handsome check to make up for the difference they weren’t paid for the last 20 months.

The amount of those payments will depend on Robert Bollengier, the arbitrator.

But this is not open ended. Firefighters will get something, but the city won’t go bankrupt.

In reaching a contract, the parties agreed to drop all issues before them when bargaining with former mayor Scott Avedisian broke off, with the exception of pay. On the table were the city’s offer of a 1.5-percent pay increase and the demand of firefighters for 5 percent.

As part of the settlement, the firefighters reduced their demand to 3 percent. So, Bollengier is to set an increase between the two numbers after hearing arguments from the parties. If that doesn’t happen this Friday, a second arbitration session is scheduled for Feb. 25.

“We budgeted that, we’re not losing,” Chief of Staff William DePasquale said Friday.

DePasquale did not disclose how much has been set aside to make the payment. At the time a tentative agreement was announced, it was projected each 1 percent increase in pay would cost the city $250,000.

“We’re doing what other administrations didn’t do. We anticipated,” DePasquale said.

He reminded that under the contract, firefighters will “get a zero percent” increase for FY20. Mayor Joseph Solomon terms the contract “revenue neutral” and, in fact, calculates a $600,000 savings, based on union givebacks of holidays and vacation days.

In a release issued Jan. 29, Solomon said, “I’m pleased to sign this contract today, which guarantees the city of Warwick’s ongoing financial health as well as the superb fire protection services that Warwick residents expect and deserve.” He called the agreement “another responsible step to ensure our city’s financial health moving forward.”

Asked if consideration was given to moving payroll services out of the department into city finance – which manages payroll for other departments – as a means of better controlling the swapping of shifts and sick time that have been issues, DePasquale said the fire and police departments have the software to eliminate much of the paperwork they had relied on and “make accountability easier.” The program is designed to provide the coding needed to account for the variety of variables that face the departments in the scheduling and paying of personnel.

He also said that Mayor Solomon is pushing to fully utilize the city’s Munis program of Tyler Technologies used for accounting and “catch up with the rest of the world.” The issue, he explained, is finding people who understand the capabilities of the system and can act as trainers so that the administration can easily get the information it wants.

With the signing of the contract, the department initiated 24-hour shifts while still working 48 hours a week. Under the schedule that went into effect a couple of weeks ago, firefighters work 10 day hours and 14 night hours. Under the plan, which is similar to that in Providence and Boston and is believed to reduce overtime, following a 24-hour shift, firefighters get two days off. They then work for another 24 hours, which is followed by four days off. The cycle then repeats itself.

“It’s been working very well,” said union President Michael Correiro.

He disclosed that the department is planning a promotional ceremony Feb. 20 at the Crowne Plaza where 60 firefighters – including Chief Peter McMichael, who has never been officially sworn in – will be promoted. With arbitration and the lack of a contract, promotions have been held in abeyance.

Also, in the absence of a contract and unresolved issues over pensions that were resolved in the contract, the administration refrained from filling about 20 department vacancies. As a practice, the department runs an 18-week training academy before taking on new personnel. Correiro did not know when, and if, the next academy is planned.

“Things are moving in the right direction,” he said of the department.

The contract establishes an OPEB trust, the first of its kind in Warwick. All employees hired after July 1, 2019, will contribute, in addition to current co-shares for health insurance, an additional 2 percent of their pay to fund an OPEB trust. The trust will be used to contribute to their health care costs in retirement, which defrays the city's future employee retirement costs. According to Warwick's actuaries, the OPEB fund will reduce the city's contribution toward retiree healthcare for new hires by approximately 30 percent.

The new OPEB trust for firefighters will serve as a template for future negotiations with the city’s other bargaining units.

The contract also includes reductions in firefighter time off and increases in management rights. Firefighters will have a total of seven fewer days off, due to reductions in sick days, personal days and holidays.

Comments

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  • davebarry109

    A note to city officials. The arbitrator can read the news. If he/she knows the city has set aside enough for a 3% raise, guess what he is going to award? Duh.

    Tuesday, February 4, 2020 Report this

  • DannyHall82

    Best comment of the week Dave.

    Tuesday, February 4, 2020 Report this

  • Former User

    Does anyone else remember the "$250,000 allocation to fund a study of the fire department 'to determine if there are operational and other cost savings that can be realized'" -- ?

    It's noted in this article: http://warwickonline.com/stories/322m-budget-would-raise-tax-levy-lower-tax-rate,142367?

    I suspect that's where the money for the 2018 contract year is coming from.

    As davebarry suggested, Solomon is giving away the city's position while pretending otherwise.

    Tuesday, February 4, 2020 Report this

  • JamesBruder

    Dace, he is not going to award 3%. It’s going to be 2.25% abc includes ZERO ZoT. A huge savings for the city.? The city will save .75% force what they budged. It’s a joke if any argues anything else. ITS A SAVINGS THIS CURRENT BUDGETED YEAR.

    Tuesday, February 4, 2020 Report this

  • JamesBruder

    Sorry my phone is awfulz

    Tuesday, February 4, 2020 Report this

  • JamesBruder

    City budgets 3% but it will only cost 2.25%...... UNDER BUDGET

    Tuesday, February 4, 2020 Report this

  • Jsimmy230

    They are overpaid now, and deserve ZERO for the indefinite future period of time after the 4% given out in this three year joke contract.

    Tuesday, February 4, 2020 Report this

  • JamesBruder

    To clarify, the arbitrator is NOT including OT in his award and it will be 2.25%. That is a huge savings to the city. Dave it is not going to be a 3% award. I apologize my phone is old and not in great shape.

    Tuesday, February 4, 2020 Report this

  • JamesBruder

    John Simoneau, a guy who gets a disability pension for being a crooked PVD Cop and because he has multiple screws loose says active firefighters are paid too much. The most laughable comment of the day. Keep it up Johnny. Straight Jacket is next.

    Tuesday, February 4, 2020 Report this

  • Justanidiot

    dont worry about your phone, jimmy. the city will replace yours free of charge. they do that for any resident of the city. all you have to do is ask.

    Tuesday, February 4, 2020 Report this

  • JamesBruder

    Good to know “Idiot” thank you.

    Tuesday, February 4, 2020 Report this

  • Thecaptain

    So once again the pigs are feeding at the trough. The 5 dope council members vote to ratify a contract that still has pending litigation. In that agreement they absolve the fire thieves for the theft of tax payer dollars during the unused sick pay scheme. No one in private business would ever sign a contract with a party that still has litigation pending against them. They get what they want, now they hold us hostage. Where is it stated that municipal workers must get a raise every year? What does that do to the unfunded liabilities in the future. This contact was a disgrace and the 5 scumbags who vote for it are complete morons who DO NOT have the residents best interest at hand. Solomon's budget has so much fat in it just to give away to the unions. Shameful derelict of human.

    Now the next scheme that you will see within the very near future is that there will be all kinds of rank promotions so that they can again spike pay. How does a councilman vote on a contract that he cannot quote what the cost of a retro-active pay increase will cost the city. Only a fool does that.

    Very interesting also now that within the time period leading up to the ratification, Crooked Joe gave jobs to 3 councilman's family members. QUID-PRO-JOE for sure.

    Tuesday, February 4, 2020 Report this

  • TheDeal

    Now there’s a promotion scheme?! This just in, firefighters extinguish blaze in scheme use government owned water... give me a break. No new positions for promotion have been created. There is no scheme, no matter how badly you wish there was one. Just like that FBI investigation that never existed. All promotions are from vacancies in ranks created by the retirement of employees. There hasn’t been a promotional ceremony held at in a long time due to the issues that were at hand. Now that they’re resolved, the city has decided to hold a ceremony acknowledging the promotions that have occurred in the time since the last one was held. That’s it. Sorry it’s not a big scandal and scheme so you folks could engage in your favorite past time, besmirching the good name of your public servants.

    Tuesday, February 4, 2020 Report this

  • Jsimmy230

    COWARDS ...

    WFD ARE CELLAR DWELLERS.

    JUst about any fire they go to put out, endS up being a total loss. Anything over one story building fire, and it burns to the ground.

    Overpaid LOSERS .....

    No raises needed. They should have to give money back, and let City outsource their duties.

    LOSERS ..........

    Tuesday, February 4, 2020 Report this

  • JamesBruder

    Simoneau is a getting paid a disability pension because he was deemed unfit mentally to be a cop. CASE CLOSED....

    Tuesday, February 4, 2020 Report this

  • Jsimmy230

    COWARD ....

    As usual. You don't know what you're talking about. On the job injury that 4 City selected doctors said I couldn't do the job anymore. They chose the doctors not me.

    COWARD ...

    USE REAL NAME

    Still waiting for time and place ...

    JUST A PROVEN COWARD, AND A LIAR!

    Tuesday, February 4, 2020 Report this

  • Jsimmy230

    https://www.robertebollengieresqcpa.com/attorneys/

    Check this arbitrators profile and take a guess who he will do his best for!

    The problem here is binding arbitration which is bought and paid for by the unions in RI, and the Lawyers that represent unions and themselves only, NOT the taxpayers! Like Vin Ragosta and WFD Lawyer Joseph Penza that actually teach other immoral lawyers how to arbitrate. WHAT A JOKE!

    ARBITRATION PROCESS NEEDS TO GO, AND BE REPLACED BY CITIZEN HEARING BOARDS FROM TAXPAYERS IN THE TOWN BEING CONSIDERED.

    This, for the same reason Police Bill of Rights matters are being replaced by civilian review boards nationwide, so as to eliminate the FIX being in, which is the whole problem with binding arbitration. PERIOD !

    Tuesday, February 4, 2020 Report this

  • JamesBruder

    I agree John, let’s let the citizens of Prov decide whether you deserve a tax free disability pension w/cola for minimal work put in. You’d lose that thing in 2 seconds. Your a low life disability faker,,, no one cares what you say.

    Tuesday, February 4, 2020 Report this

  • joemomma

    lol johhny bucktooth, if the providence citizens ever had a say you would still be on the 5th floor in butler

    Tuesday, February 4, 2020 Report this

  • Jsimmy230

    REAL NAME COWARDS ...

    .I'M COMING FOR YOU....IN DUE TIME !

    TICK TOCK

    Wednesday, February 5, 2020 Report this

  • Warwickbeautiful

    You would think that someone who has been collecting a fraudulent disability pension for many years would prefer to keep a low profile and not draw attention to themself, but some people just don't have that mental capacity. Hopefully when their fraudulent disability pension gets revoked and they're forced to pay back the money they have obtained under false pretenses, certain individuals might learn their lesson.

    And congratulations to the brave and dedicated firefighters who will be receiving awards and promotions at the Crowne Plaza. Also, thank goodness the Crowne Plaza has a dress code which prohibits angry psychopaths dressed in tattered sweat pants from entering their establishment. That same prohibition also extends to disgraced dirty COWARD ex-cops. Tick tock.

    Wednesday, February 5, 2020 Report this

  • Jsimmy230

    Pajamas. ... COWARD ..... USE REAL NAME OR YOU ARE JUST A COWARD.

    Dont be surprised if you see me there, or before, or after, OR ANYPLACE and ANYTIME I feel like getting you. I know who you are, and where you live, so get that head on a swivel oiled up good because you won't know when, where, or how it will come.

    ENJOY .... COWARD ..... TICK TOCK, TICK TOCK

    Wednesday, February 5, 2020 Report this

  • CAMP2020

    How is this guy Simoneau able to continually threaten violence toward people who disagree with him? Maybe someone should bring these comments to the police, he is obviously unstable.

    Wednesday, February 5, 2020 Report this

  • Jsimmy230

    unreal

    They don't disagree with me. They lie and slander me using fake names because they are COWARDS. I always use my real name, and defend my positions/opinions. These COWARDS don't/can't, so I call them out to show EVERYONE that reads these comments exactly what they are. ..

    Lying/COWARDS !!

    Wednesday, February 5, 2020 Report this

  • Warwickbeautiful

    If Johnny Pajamas ever summons up the courage (highly unlikely) to show up at the fire department award ceremony, he might want to contact Stacia and ask to borrow one of her maternity dresses to help hide his large beer belly, so at least he'll look halfway presentable. From the looks of him, it appears he spent far too much time at Providence donut shops before the PPD gave him the boot.

    Thursday, February 6, 2020 Report this

  • Jsimmy230

    A new fake name for a COWARD. I'll be there on the 20th, will you COWARD? You'll have all your fellow COWARDS with you, so maybe you'll show COURAGE for once in your life and come see me there. I doubt you will though. Anyone want to bet the COWARD won't?

    Everybody come see on the 20th at the Crowne Plaza !

    Thursday, February 6, 2020 Report this

  • JamesBruder

    I believe the ceremony is on the 12th. Not the 20th from what I was told.

    Thursday, February 6, 2020 Report this

  • Jsimmy230

    Sue P

    Thanks. Going by story put out by NO STORY HERE JOHN HOWELL above.

    I will find out where, and when, because I will not miss it. I'm sure the Fake name coward will not greet me though!

    Thursday, February 6, 2020 Report this

  • ThatGuyInRI

    I haven't been checking out the Beacon in a while.

    I'm glad to see that the comments are still the same cesspool of ignorance though. It's good to know some things don't change.

    Friday, February 7, 2020 Report this

  • Warwickbeautiful

    Mr. John Howell is one of the finest and most respected journalists in the history of the state, and it's unfortunate he has allowed a poster with an axe to grind against the city and against his newspaper to hijack the comments section of the Beacon with his personal attacks, profane language, and threats of violence.

    To retain the integrity of this great newspaper, the time has come for Mr. Howell to either block the individual making these comments, or shut the comment section down completely. It's truly unfortunate that one disturbed individual has ruined the comment section, which at one time produced healthy debate and dialogue, but unfortunately the actions of a particular commenter leave Mr. Howell with no other alternative.

    Friday, February 7, 2020 Report this

  • Jsimmy230

    Shut It Down

    Real names please. If not, you can't be trusted or listened to, and if anything Mr Howell should force real name use.

    When you don't, it encourages just a bunch of trolls spouting lies and slander while hiding behind fake names!

    Friday, February 7, 2020 Report this

  • Jsimmy230

    Who is paying for using the Crowne Plaza for the ceremony? We have plenty of City owned buildings in Warwick that would not require taxpayers to pay this tab.

    Saturday, February 8, 2020 Report this

  • Warwickbeautiful

    Here's a great money saving idea-any former dirty cop collecting a phony disability pension from the city of Providence should give all the money back that they fraudulently scammed from the city. That would be a nice first step in helping Providence balance their books.

    Sunday, February 9, 2020 Report this

  • Bob_Cushman

    what happen to the attempted FOP Treasurer murder threat? That was a joke, right?

    Sunday, February 9, 2020 Report this

  • Jsimmy230

    Billy T ...... COWARD

    Get new material dope. It's old.

    Real name COWARDS.... time and place COWARD

    Sunday, February 9, 2020 Report this

  • Happy

    Give them the 3%!

    They were agreeable on the contract, now it's time to take care of them!

    Monday, February 10, 2020 Report this

  • Jsimmy230

    WFD Administration just told me that the Promotional ceremony is being held at Crowne Plaza Wednesday the 12th at 6pm. It is being paid for by the UNION, and is by invitation only. GENERAL PUBLIC NOT INVITED. WOW. So much for PUBLIC SERVICE ..lol

    Fitting don't you think? I thought New Chief and other higher ups getting promoted? Are they members of the union? It shows that the ADMINISTRATION OF THE CITY AND WFD, ARE TO COZY WITH THE UNION. It also shows that the WFD members have more money than the Taxpayers that they can afford this, AND they don't need the peon taxpayers at THEIR event!

    Monday, February 10, 2020 Report this

  • Daydreambeliever

    John, you are correct it is Wednesday at the Crowne Plaza and it is by invitational only.

    It is paid for by the firefighters who are being promoted and they pay for their families.

    You are also correct the union does pick up the difference for all of the other firefighters who show up.

    This is part of why we pay union dues to pay for lawyers and also to recognize those who have been promoted.

    Not one penny is from the taxpayers for this ceremony so don’t even go down that road.

    Monday, February 10, 2020 Report this

  • Jsimmy230

    Daydreambeliever

    I got a Coward posters here, WFD, calling me a COWARD for not going to event. I have every intention on going, invited or not, because the last thing I am is a coward. See you there I guess.

    Monday, February 10, 2020 Report this

  • Warwickbeautiful

    Looks like Johnny Pajamas has his panties all in a bunch because he didn't receive an invitation to a PRIVATE event. And if he's foolish enough to show up at a PRIVATE event without an invitation, rest assured there will be a large contingent of Warwick police officers in attendance who were invited to the PRIVATE event, and would be more than happy to escort Johnny Pajamas from the building and slap a pair of handcuffs on him if necessary.

    Monday, February 10, 2020 Report this

  • Jsimmy230

    Billy T .... REAL NAME COWARD !

    I was invited to the event by WFD COWARDS on this post. Get someone to read comments above to you. It is a big building, grounds, and common areas. I bet you won't show COWARD, but if you do, stop by and say hi COWARD ...... lol

    Monday, February 10, 2020 Report this

  • bill123

    The article states the union president “disclosed that the department is planning a promotional ceremony Feb. 20 at the Crowne Plaza where 60 firefighters – including Chief Peter McMichael, who has never been officially sworn in – will be promoted.”

    Commenters have clarified this further, saying the public is barred from the event. In my opinion, the correct way to do this is to hold a public ceremony, so the taxpayer, who is footing the bill for the increased salaries that come with promotions, can see first hand the first responders they otherwise would only likely meet in more strenuous circumstances. Then, after that was over, the union could hold its own private gathering.

    Tuesday, February 11, 2020 Report this

  • bill123

    Another reason this “ceremony” needs to be an open meeting is we don’t want to have to rely on various news providers’ sloppy reporting. The public needs to know first hand that there are in fact 60 live bodies attached to these promotions, and there is in fact a real live person being sworn in as chief. Otherwise, secrecy just promotes the appearance of a shell organization, where money is being shuffled around under false pretenses.

    Tuesday, February 11, 2020 Report this

  • Warwickbeautiful

    For anyone attending the fire department award ceremony at the Crowne Plaza tomorrow night, if you happen to come across a disheveled hobo wearing soiled pajama bottoms in the hotel lobby, please notify the Providence Retirement Board immediately, or better still, notify the missing patient unit at Butler Hospital.

    Tuesday, February 11, 2020 Report this

  • Jsimmy230

    Billy T

    Why don't you come see for yourself COWARD!

    Tuesday, February 11, 2020 Report this

  • Thecaptain

    Presently on WFD 19 Captains, 38 Lieutenants, 6 Battalion chiefs. You've got to be kidding me. This is just another spike game for those 1 year out from retirement.

    Tuesday, February 11, 2020 Report this

  • Thecaptain

    East Greenwich Woman Sentenced to 8 Years in Prison for $10M Fraud Scheme

    https://www.golocalprov.com/news/east-greenwich-woman-sentenced-to-8-years-in-prison-for-10m-fraud-scheme

    So Monique Brady, (wife of Warwick Fire Captain Thomas Brady) steals 5 million dollars, lives in a 1.5 million dollar home, has lavish parties, drives luxury cars, yet the Warwick Fire Captain (salary of $95,470.44) has zero knowledge that something may be wrong.

    Not withstanding that she defrauded 3 other Warwick Firefighters and Captain Brady had absolutely no idea that his wife was a thief even though he was living large on her criminal activity. Rigghhhhhhtttttt.

    I wonder if she was a consultant to the WFD in the engineering of their in house schemes?

    Tuesday, February 11, 2020 Report this

  • Thecaptain

    Looks like once again the fire department lies and conducts themselves like thugs. Fire union just emailed WPRO stating that the promotion ceremony was open to the public. The 4 council members that voted against the contract were not notified. What a bunch of thugs.

    Tuesday, February 11, 2020 Report this

  • Jsimmy230

    I was going anyway!

    Tuesday, February 11, 2020 Report this

  • Jsimmy230

    WFD ADMINISTRATION says it is still invitation only tonight. She said she doesnt know about union statement on Yorke's show yesterday. Asked to speak with who would know, she said they are all in a meeting now to call back. I said I would call back if she could tell me a time too. She said she doesn't know what time. I said the Mayor knows nothing about it either, and not a good way to run a City.

    LMAO

    Wednesday, February 12, 2020 Report this

  • Daydreambeliever

    The last promotional ceremony was held in July 2016. This is why there is a large number being promoted.

    You all just love to create a story that isn’t their.

    It’s all fake news and hot air my goodness your lives have to have more important things to concern yourself with.

    Wednesday, February 12, 2020 Report this

  • Jsimmy230

    Daydreambeliever

    60 promotions according to the Beacon is 25% of positions on the job. If that is correct, I don't think it is the actual number of positions open. Was there testing done for these positions? It said the Chief, and I assume other high ranking members, are also being promoted. They aren't members of the union, and if they are, that needs to change. Administration of Dept. and Union events should be separated, or the relationship of management and employees gets to Cozy. The taxpayers get screwed in the end, when that happens.

    Just my humble opinion.

    Wednesday, February 12, 2020 Report this

  • JamesBruder

    Funny the only people whining that they didn’t get a for so invite are people that have never gone. I have never seen Mr Merolla at a promotional ceremony. And listening to Cushman cry that he can’t go it hilarious. Come with me buddy, I’ll get you in. You can even pin my badge on.

    Wednesday, February 12, 2020 Report this

  • Jsimmy230

    Slim Jim

    Another COWARD. Can't write a coherent short statement. Embarrassing. I'll be there COWARD. Come introduce yourself, and I'll pin your fake badge on. Loser!

    Wednesday, February 12, 2020 Report this

  • BeaconCommenter

    John,

    No one wants to use their real name here because we are all afraid you will come to our house with weapon.

    Wednesday, February 12, 2020 Report this

  • Daydreambeliever

    John enough already my goodness so defensive take a step back and breathe.

    As a former police officer you know damn well how promotions work.

    If a Lieutenant retires that 1 promotion from being a private.

    If a Captain retires that’s 2 promotions, one gets printed to Captain and one to fill the Lieutenant.

    If a Battalion Chief retires that’s 3 promotions one till fill the Batallion Chief, one to fill the Captain and one to fill the Lieutenant.

    Now the only Chiefs not in the Union are the Chief of Department and 2 Assistant Chiefs. These are filled by the mayors choosing and are not part of the union.

    So let’s see approximate 30 guys have retired since 2016 so if you use my information from above you will see that 64 promotions aren’t that bad.

    You already know this from being a police officer how the ranks work but you like to bust balls.

    Also every rank is tested every 2 years. A new list is generated for each rank.

    If you go tonight so be it I don’t really give a flying you know what.

    As for who gets invited or who doesn’t the city council has always been invited to every swearing in ceremony so don’t let them BS you.

    Some attend regularly some can’t be bothered so don’t fall for the special ones getting privilege over others.

    Wednesday, February 12, 2020 Report this

  • Jsimmy230

    Beacon Commenter

    That is another foolish statement, and you know its BS. I carry to protect myself, my family, and ANYONE that would need my help. All in accordance with the law.

    Wednesday, February 12, 2020 Report this

  • Warwickbeautiful

    Now that Johnny Pajamas has been told THREE times that the function at the Crowne Plaza is a PRIVATE one, paid for by a PRIVATE organization, he'll just have to go back to his old hobby, which is sitting at the Oakland Beach sea wall listening to his scanner and making obscene gestures to any fire truck that drives by. If he needs something else to keep him busy, he could always drive the felon gasoline dumper/animal gasser around to the various grocery stores to film the firefighters, or he could volunteer to drive Stacia to her weekly Weight Watchers meetings. COWARD....TICK TOCK TICK TOCK

    Wednesday, February 12, 2020 Report this

  • JamesBruder

    Simoneau,

    Why do you want to go so bad? You hate these guys. It’s obvious you only want to attend to start trouble.

    Wednesday, February 12, 2020 Report this

  • Apple_martinis

    Kidding. This "Private" event by the union is a terrible look.

    Promotion = Raises

    Raises are paid by the taxpayer.

    This close door policy invoked by the union looks bad. How can you say it doesn't??

    Wednesday, February 12, 2020 Report this

  • Warwickbeautiful

    The only good news out of this is that the Providence Police cut their losses with Johnny Sweat Pants many years ago. While they let him go on a phony disability, they realized he was a dirty cop and it was a lot easier to just give him the phony disability than to fire him and have the firing tied up in the court system for years. Let's just be happy that he no longer carries a badge and a gun.

    Wednesday, February 12, 2020 Report this

  • Daydreambeliever

    Please explain to me how this promotional ceremony is any different from the Warwick Police Ceremonies?

    They are paid for with your taxes and you don’t go or insist on going.

    The R.I. state police are paid with your taxes also and I don’t see you moaning about not attending.

    You all like to bitch and complain is all you do.

    So sad this is what your lives have become.

    Wednesday, February 12, 2020 Report this

  • JamesBruder

    Union supporter, you are obviously not understanding how budgets work. These position were budgeted for at the beginning of the budgeted year. They are set no matter who is in the spot. Promotions don’t cost the city a dime more than was budgeted for in July. Simple math is tough I get it.. good luck tonight Johnny PJ...

    Wednesday, February 12, 2020 Report this

  • Jsimmy230

    Same old fake name COWARDS ..

    blah. Bbah, blag... same lying, slanderous material.... lol

    I'm here. Come introduce yourself COWARDS

    Wednesday, February 12, 2020 Report this

  • Jsimmy230

    Hilarious ......

    Just been told by WPD that I have to leave the parking lot of Crowne Plaza hotel because the Hotel doesn't want little old me on their property tonight. I left when requested by police, driving to the front desk and the Manager confirmed he did make the request because the Union President requested they do it. I then asked if they had a vacancy and he said yes they do. I said OK I'll take a room, how much. He, the manager, then says I can't rent it to you. THEY don't want you here. The poor guy was in awkward position, so I left when the WPD Sgt. was coming back in to speak with us. I suggested that he, and the rest of the WPD, should keep an eye on all the WFD employees drinking and then leaving to drive. That would truly be protecting the public, and doing their job. All in all, a very successful nights work. We ALL know who the real COWARDS are now.

    Wednesday, February 12, 2020 Report this

  • Jsimmy230

    Oh yeah almost forgot...Daydreambeliever

    The difference with the WPD Ceremonies, that I have attended, are in City Council chambers, and public is invited. Even inauguration of elected dopes in Warwick is open to the public, so I attended the last two and justifiably booed when appropriate. The public records request I submitted yesterday, better not find that even 1 penny of taxpayer money was spent on this event tonight. If so, shit will hit the fan, and you can take that to the bank!

    Wednesday, February 12, 2020 Report this

  • Warwickbeautiful

    Congratulations to all the fire department members who were recognized for their achievements last night, and also a big thank you to the Crowne Plaza management and Warwick Police Dept. who both had to deal with a demented sociopath who trespassed at a private event at a private venue in a pathetic attempt to disrupt the private ceremony.

    The only disappointment of the evening was the fact that the trespasser was simply ejected from the premises and not hauled off to jail or to Butler Hospital.

    Thursday, February 13, 2020 Report this

  • Jsimmy230

    Billy T

    I proved you are a COWARD. I went to meet you, but you hid with the rest of Warwick's worst COWARDS!

    Hope you had as much fun as I did ...... LMFAO

    Thursday, February 13, 2020 Report this

  • Jsimmy230

    I listened to Yorke podcast this morning. He reported that the union President said it was open event to Council members if they wanted to go. They have the right to ask Crowne Plaza to exclude the public from their private event. The question is was any official City actions taken at the event? The BOPS or Mayor can't perform official acts without posting at SOS Office and allowing the public. John Howell was present. Was their official acts taken or just a bunch of political whores of the WFD present as just unofficial guests? I want to know why City EMA RV was there with firefighters getting dressed inside. Why Engine 3, Engine 9, Ladder 3 and a yellow loaned engine were all there? That means taxpayers funds were partially used for private event. Also a police Sgt with Traffic Bureau SUV was present continuously. Was he paid on a private detail by union or taxpayer funds?

    Thursday, February 13, 2020 Report this

  • bill123

    In my opinion, the only way to determine if the public was wrongfully excluded from the ceremony is for someone to file an open meeting complaint. Based on this article, it is reasonable to believe it was an official city meeting. The article clearly says “the department is planning”. It does not say the union is planning anything. There may be conflicting information elsewhere, but unfortunately the most reliable means available to resolve these differences is by filing a complaint. That forces the city to state its position, which it seems to be avoiding now and will likely continue to avoid. Realize this is how the swamp works. They are skillful at putting out incomplete and conflicting information, with the purpose of causing confusion and delay, and ultimately wearing down any who stand for the right.

    Thursday, February 13, 2020 Report this

  • UR2Funny

    Obviously you are not reading the comments Daydreambeliever tells you above that each promoted firefighter and their families had to pay for this function. That being said if they all decided not to pay then there would have been no ceremony at the Crowne Plaza. It was a bigger than normal pinning ceremony get over it.

    Thursday, February 13, 2020 Report this

  • TheDeal

    John,

    If you call chasing non stories and hanging around alone in your car where you’re not wanted before being removed by the police a “successful nights work...” then I encourage you to get a life. Truly. Here’s the thing, it was only held at the Crown Plaza due to the number of members being promoted and the large number of guests in attendance. City Hall couldn’t hold all of those people. That’s it’s. Nothing more to it. Each member being promoted paid 250 dollars of their own money for the venue and food as a post celebration. The rest was paid for by the Union. No official acts occurred last night. Everyone was officially promoted at previous open meetings of the Board of Public Safety which were posted in accordance with all laws. Last night was simply a traditional ceremony for friends and family of those being promoted. It was open to all council members and if fact, Corley who voted against the contract attended. No new positions were created after the contract vote. Nothing nefarious occurred. You are chasing ghosts, alone, in your vehicle, like a weirdo. For some reason you’re happy about that but really, it’s quite sad. You seem to have developed some self worth from all of this. Why, I have no idea. I encourage you to do something productive, like volunteer for candidates or causes you believe in. Better yet, spend time with those who love you. Sitting alone in parking lots hating people who are doing nothing wrong is no way to live life. It’s too short man.

    Thursday, February 13, 2020 Report this

  • Jsimmy230

    Thedeal .... another WFD Dope no doubt.

    I stood outside my car drinking a soda actually, in plain view of all. I don't hide from anyone. I don't see you responding to the points about why official on duty taxpayer bought and paid for vehicles were there, and not at their assigned stations in case an emergency call came in within their area? Who paid for the police Sgt. and his marked SUV, that babysat you clowns?

    When I get my public records requests responded to regarding this event, we will see if they correspond correctly with what actually took place. Then action to force compliance with the law will be taken if appropriate. It is sad that taxpayers in Warwick have to monitor departments, and the administrations activities because elected officiaks, appointed department heads, with their paid staffs can't be trusted. It is sad that they are liars, corrupt, and all in cozy relationships together with City unions, at the taxpayers expense.

    To be continued.

    Thursday, February 13, 2020 Report this

  • TheDeal

    John,

    I never said you were hiding. Your attendance last night was plain to see. Despite your desperate attempts, none of us will be goaded into a confrontation with you. We’re all contributing members of society with families and careers we are proud of. Challenging us to fights and calling us cowards doesn’t anger us, it amuses us. We’re not interested in that behavior. We have serious work to do protecting the citizens of this City, you included. What’s sad is that we aren’t even allowed to enjoy a night with our families to celebrate the hard work and achievement of promotion at a event, that we paid for, free from your harassment. We expect and encourage fair oversight and scrutiny. We’re a public entity, we get it. But ask yourself, is that what you exhibited last night? Was it fair of you to bound about making people uneasy? We live in dangerous times. Is it fair that we need to be concerned with the man stalking the event maybe harming our families? Is it fair that we need police presence to keep you at bay because you’ve become so much of a concern? Maybe that vindicates you and somehow convinces yourself that you’re tough and someone to be feared. I’m not sure. I’m not sure that’s the man you actually want to be. Is it? I am sure whatever it is you're doing isn’t something you should be proud of. Go to council meeting. Call your representatives but don’t be the guy hanging around in parking lots harassing people. I’d imagine this wasn’t how you saw yourself on the day you took your own oath to serve and protect.

    Thursday, February 13, 2020 Report this

  • Jsimmy230

    All your fears and concerns are bullshit, and you know it. Your Union president said on Dan Yorle's show Tuesday afternoon that it was an open night. I was told by one person it was private and one person said it was public. I called WFD Chief Wednesday morning and asked. They said HE would get back to me and let me know. As usual, HE didn't. I called and texted the loser Mayor and they didn't know nothing ...literally, as usual. I was also called a COWARD by WFD COWARDS on this blog saying I wouldn't show up. Oh well I did for all the above reasons, found out it was in fact private, not open to the public, so I left when asked. I didn't bound around, as you say, anywhere.

    Amazing how you make this about me, when it is all about you COWARDS. Since I went to Council meeting to express my opinion during contract ratification, and said that you are all paid enough now, and shouldn't get more, period. WFD Cowards on this blog have lied and slandered me daily, so I call you out as FAKE NAME COWARDS. Even you, an alleged man, and wanna be hero, are afraid to speak your peace using your real name. I, and others, might respect you THUGS, if you had the balls to use your real names.

    I don't need to go there to prove I'm tough, or for any other reason. I know who I am, and I'm not afraid to speak my mind and opinions to anyone using my real name. I earned my 1st ammendment rights by serving my Country, serving the public, and have every intention of continuing exercising them. If you have a problem with that, tough. I am a law abiding citizen, always have been, and always will be. Nobody needs fear me for any reason, unless they create one.

    Again, you give no justification for why our equipment was at the event, and not where they belong other than the WFD employees belief that they are entitled to be where they feel like being and the Dept. and City Administrations allows use and abuse of taxpayer equipment and expenses for a PRIVATE UNION EVENT. You can use OUR equipment wrongly, I can be there to witness and report it.

    Thursday, February 13, 2020 Report this

  • TheDeal

    John,

    You’re overly concerned with us and it’s unhealthy. Actually, it’s bordering on obsession. As I said, request all the records you want. Scrutinize the department financials all you like. Investigate our scandalous promotion ceremony that we paid for all you like. Whine about us at meetings and harass your council person. (Sorry, Councilwoman Travis) but for the love of god, man, get a grip. This stalking bit you’re devolving into isn’t a good look. I mean, you’re a retired cop and WPD is reduced to babysitting you. It’s unbecoming. Be better than that.

    Friday, February 14, 2020 Report this

  • Warwickbeautiful

    This is all very simple. The Warwick Police Dept. received a credible complaint that a mentally unstable individual was planning on crashing and disrupting a private function at the Crowne Plaza on Wednesday night. The police investigated, and in fact, found evidence that the disturbed individual made online threats to trespass and disrupt the private function. Based upon this evidence, the Warwick Police found the threat to be credible, and dispatched an on duty officer to the Crowne Plaza. Upon the officer's arrival, the subject who had been making the online threats was located in the hotel parking lot, and at that time the officer ordered the subject to leave the premises or face arrest for trespassing.

    In this day and age, online threats of violence must be taken seriously, and the Warwick Police and the responding officer handled the situation correctly and professionally. In addition, the Warwick Police have shown they take all online threats of violence seriously, and those individuals such as the mentally unstable individual who trespassed at the Crowne Plaza this week will be dealt with appropriately.

    Friday, February 14, 2020 Report this

  • Jsimmy230

    TheDeal

    Again it's all about me, not you. Obsession .... you wish. Just doing my part to try and keep taxpayers safe from you, the corrupt WFD and this VERY CORRUPT City Administration. We all know what happened to Travis when she screwed with me... ask her about that, if you don't because I saw her at your ceremony. Another political whore for the WFD Union!

    I respond to COWARDS on this blog that apparently are obsessed with me. If you drop it, and stop your childish comments, lies, and slander about me, I wouldn't even be wasting my time with you. IT ALL STARTS WITH YOU COWARDS, but rest assured, it will end with me, and ask Travis how that worked out for her. Be careful what you ask for, COWARDS. LMFAO

    Friday, February 14, 2020 Report this

  • JamesBruder

    Mr. Simoneau funny you ask who is paying for the police. Think about “Educated Voters” comments. The police had to spend time and money babysitting you because You made threats and you were hanging around a private event. YOU Mr. SIMONEAU cause them to respond.

    Question, when asked to leave did you go to the front desks and try and book a room at the hotel so you could continue to harass the private event? That is mental instability.

    Friday, February 14, 2020 Report this

  • Daydreambeliever

    As commented earlier for the few here who insist they violated open meetings law or whatever you want to drum up.

    Everyone who was promoted was officially promoted by the Board Of Public Safety at an earlier date which is open to the public. They meet twice a month on Tuesday’s not just for the fire department but all official city business.

    The information is online if you so choose to bother to look.

    Prior to the Board of Public Safety promoting anyone paperwork is submitted to the Secretary of State mentioning the time, date and who is being promoted. This is for the taxpayers to attend and this is when you are welcome as it is held at the Police Department HQ.

    The promotional ceremony is a private event and they can invite who ever they choose.

    It is paid for by the individuals and union.

    As for the police department being there it wasn’t so much for you John it was because it’s common courtesy out of respect they attend the fire department promotions as well as the fire department shows up to their’s.

    Honestly this isn’t a story but you all love to try and spin everything.

    Friday, February 14, 2020 Report this

  • Jsimmy230

    They had a uniform Sgt patrolling the outside lot. Who paid for that? Engine 3, 9, yellow engine, Ladder 3, EMA RV, and WFD unmarked old police vehicle all there. Who paid for that?

    No one seems to want to answer those questions.

    I never harrassed or even talked to anyone. I never threatened anyone, anytime, so you are imagining things. Asking fake name COWARDS on a blog if they would like to meet you face to face AND TALK, isn't a threat. It is just the manly thing to do to a COWARD, slandering you.

    I'm not the one sending disgusting mail, again anonymously, through the mail to people's houses after they speak at a Council meeting against the WFD. Everytime I speak out, these WFD COWARDS send this crap to my house, and others that speak out against their positions. Childish, COWARDLY, THUG BS, so I invite the COWARDS to come talk to me like men ....lol

    That isn't a threat, just an invitation that they don't respond to.

    Friday, February 14, 2020 Report this

  • Jsimmy230

    Educated Voter .... another fake name COWARD

    Nothing about what you wrote is correct or credible. So go get educated in the law because I am, and I'm a law abiding, upstanding citizen doing what the Constitution gives me the right to do. Nothing more, and nothing less!

    Now go away, fool.

    Friday, February 14, 2020 Report this

  • concernedwife123

    Dear John Simoneau,

    As a wife of a firefighter there are many "normal" threats of the job that worry me each shift but these are the ones my husband signed up for and we can deal with as a family. Your posts are causing additional worry and threats that should not be par for the course.

    The world is crazy... innocent police, firefighters, people and even children are hurt every day. As a former Police Officer, I know this is something that you can understand and most likely witnessed many times. I know that you say you are only inviting conversation but when you write things like you know where people live, "tick-tock," "I feel like getting you," "you won't know when, where, or how it will come," openly write about carrying a weapon and insist on showing up to a private ceremony paid for by us, meant to be a celebration for loved ones, we have no option but to worry. Think about what makes the sound "tick-tock" the next time you write that...

    My husband misses many holidays, I often spend my own celebrations, family birthday parties and work events without him but again we signed up for this life. Wednesday night was meant to be a time we could actually all come together as a big WFD family and celebrate. When I heard about your threats (you can say they were not threats but to someone on the outside they came across threatening to me) I questioned even having my family attend. Why would I put MORE people I love in harms way? I looked around the room at all the beautiful, sweet, children and people I have come to know and love and wondered if you were actually someone who was a threat to these people.

    John, If it is true what you are now saying, and you are only inviting conversation, I ask you to please be thoughtful with your posts and the words you use in attempts to have these conversations. As a tax paying citizen you have every right to ask questions and no one can take that right away from you. As a tax paying career woman, I value and understand the need for "checks and balances" and these are applied to all aspects of my own work day. I hope going forward you feel empowered to do this in a more productive way. While I have known these firefighters for many many years and believe them to be amazing, kind, generous, caring men and women, if you feel they are "cowards" and "thugs" do not allow that feeling to bring you to such a vicious place. As a WFD wife voicing my concerns with your posts, I will obviously not be using my real name but if things were to change and the threats stop, I would be happy to discuss my thoughts or opinions with you in the future, in a mutually respectful way.

    It is Valentine's Day... lets all respect each-other for the day and see if that can be the start of a more productive forum.

    To Mayor Joe Solomon, please do something to bring the citizens and employees of your city together! Stop allowing rumors to fuel such negativity, address valid concerns and make it known that threats to our firefighters and police will not be tolerated! These men and women work tirelessly to help your sick, elderly, and citizens in need. You all need to work together to keep Warwick a safe and thriving community.

    To The Warwick Beacon - shame on you! Why are these comments not moderated? If one of these threats were to become reality you will feel awfully guilty for your part in perpetuating the situation.

    Respectfully,

    A Concerned WFD Wife

    Friday, February 14, 2020 Report this

  • Jsimmy230

    I never threatened anyone. You can't threaten an anonymous COWARD poster to a blog. Maybe you and your husband should get his corrupt union members to stop slandering people behind fake names, and using their wives to speak about their fears. As I said before, above, if they stop, I stop. A WFD COWARD posted above, that I wouldn't show up, well how did that work out?.

    They started this. They can end it. Maybe you can give me your address, and I can send you the foul, disgusting mail they send to my house, Rob Cote's house, and even Ken Block. Coincidentally those that spoke out against their contract scam. Maybe then you would understand my position. The ball is in THEIR court, as they say, so we'll see. As far as Tick Tock, to me, and in the context of what was written, it meant their time on a clock is running out. I do know who they are, were they live and GETTING them can mean many things. Ask Donna Travis. I got her legally, as I would do to these COWARDS. I'm a law abiding citizen, always have been and always will be. Now talk to your husband, and his colleagues. Not me!

    Friday, February 14, 2020 Report this

  • JamesBruder

    John,

    WFD didn’t mail any letters. I promise you that. We all know that Mr. Cote mails them himself, and I guess you and Block. If you have one ounce of info please show it. These mailings are made up by you three. Please take them and have forensics look at them. I guarantee they don’t come from any WFD member.

    Friday, February 14, 2020 Report this

  • concernedwife123

    Dear John,

    As I stated, you have every right to express your opinions and concerns, I am only asking that you do so with a less threatening tone. I ask this after going into Wednesday evening worried about your posts that came across threatening. I do this as a very independent woman out of my own concern, I am not speaking for anyone else.

    I am happy that Wednesday ended up being a beautiful event and well deserved ceremony. If things were different and there had not have been such aggressive posts, I would have been happy to give you the extra seat we paid for and did not use. This is how respectful acquaintanceship can work!

    Thank you for taking the time to read my post, John. I hope you have a wonderful weekend.

    Friday, February 14, 2020 Report this

  • Warwickbeautiful

    To "Concerned WFD Wife"-Thank you for your common sense post. One needs to look no further than the nearby town of Westerly to see what can happen when an individual's rage and hatred spiral out of control. Just a couple of short months ago, what started with an angry individual with an axe to grind against two town workers ended up in tragedy, with one worker shot dead and another worker suffering horrific life changing injuries. And this tragedy began with the gunman threatening these two women both verbally and online. Fast forward to today, and any rational individual can see why the attendees at the Crowne Plaza celebration were fearful, and why the Warwick Police stationed an officer at the Crowne Plaza. That's called proactive policing, and the Warwick Police and their leadership areto be commended for providing the attendees at that function a level of security.

    Also, it's comforting to see that the Warwick Police are taking these online threats of violence seriously, as we live in a very different world today than the world we lived in a generation ago. There are far too many tragedies and senseless acts of violence occurring these days, and the tragedy that occurred in Westerly is a perfect example.

    And while it's comforting to know that the Warwick Police are monitoring this comment section for the continued threats of violence by one particular commenter, it may be time for the management of the Beacon to take a long hard look at these violent posts and block those type of comments and the individuals who make those posts. It's one thing to have a difference of opinion and healthy debate, but when a media outlet allows an individual to make threats while boasting about carrying a concealed firearm, it may be time for the media outlet to be proactive and prevent a tragedy before it happens.

    Friday, February 14, 2020 Report this

  • Apple_martinis

    Let's go further and change how this comment section runs and use a service like Disqus for example. The way we can all change the title to be whomever we want is ridiculous. Agreed "Johnny Pajamas"?

    Friday, February 14, 2020 Report this

  • Jsimmy230

    Read the posts. Others, not me, brought up me carrying weapons. I agree with Bill DePasquale, although I doubt it was really him, as people have also posted things using my name. I have posted here, and personally asked Mr Howell, to stop allowing FAKE NAMES here. He can easily change process to post with the email address signed in as, and then it would be traceable. The way it is now, others post as me, so no easy way to prove who is saying what. Even harder to prosecute using VPN'S!

    We'll see what the COWARDS do now, or if they want to continue the games. I'm more than willing, and able, to defend myself from Fake Named, slanderous COWARDS.

    Friday, February 14, 2020 Report this

  • Warwickbeautiful

    Vote Johnny Bucktooth for mayor-free pajamas for everyone!

    Saturday, February 15, 2020 Report this

  • Warwickbeautiful

    This site looks more like a third grade schoolyard disagreement from a group of juvenile delinquents than a news and information website. What a joke.

    Saturday, February 15, 2020 Report this

  • Apple_martinis

    Cote mails those out himself huh? I never thought of that. Good lord that man is angry.

    Saturday, February 15, 2020 Report this

  • Warwickbeautiful

    To Warwick resident 02889-when you're collecting a huge TAX FREE disability pension from a phony injury like Johnny Sweat Pants, you have plenty of time to stalk and harass city workers.

    Saturday, February 15, 2020 Report this

  • Jsimmy230

    COWARDS ...... TICK TOCK

    Saturday, February 15, 2020 Report this

  • joemomma

    maybe if johnny snaggle tooth spent as much time as be does obsessing over the warwick fd with his wife, he wouldnt have to rack up the cell minutes constantly makin courtesy calls everytime hes on his way home. tick tock tick tock

    Saturday, February 15, 2020 Report this

  • Jsimmy230

    COWARD.... See how funny you think it is when I COME FOR YOU!

    Saturday, February 15, 2020 Report this

  • Warwickbeautiful

    I'm new to this site and this thread, and it's obvious I have a lot of catching up to do. Does anyone know Commish, Spider, Pajamas, Swet Pants, Ziggy, or Slim Jim? While the names are pretty funny, I feel like I'm at a mafia convention or watching the movie Goodfellas. Can anyone help here with the characters so I can get a better sense of the storyline?

    Saturday, February 15, 2020 Report this

  • Warwickbeautiful

    By the way, I read the NewYork Post, the Star, and the Sun, and I must admit, this newspaper is just as entertaining as those tabloids!

    Saturday, February 15, 2020 Report this

  • joemomma

    hellooooo boys!!

    Sunday, February 16, 2020 Report this

  • Jsimmy230

    Fake name typewriter COWARD.

    It's going to be so much fun when I come for you. You will pay COWARD. Get ready!

    Sunday, February 16, 2020 Report this

  • joemomma

    Sunday, February 16, 2020 Report this

  • Thecaptain

    I must apologize for all of the discontent that I have caused. I have been the assigned union enforcer, so my job is to harass, demean, and antagonize anyone that has an opinion other than, that we (WFD members) are God-like and deserve to be treated like royalty.

    My close union associate and fellow enforcer Nick Varras of 134 Sevilla Ave also takes the necessary time to monitor and harass anyone who has an alternative position on how we rape the city and the taxpayers. We have numerous techniques to instill fear into people so as to keep their mouths shut and allow us to bankrupt the city. So now please all go away because I am on the clock and should not be on this site commenting when I should be sleeping, playing pool, going to Target, or making calls to my tenants.

    Tuesday, February 18, 2020 Report this