The union has attended planning sessions and continues to monitor the relocation from the Curtis Center to a new building. We have invoked bargaining on the I&I of the relocation but no bargaining can occur until the union receives formal notification that a building has been selected – generally until then we can only seek to have our suggestions considered.
One issue that is apparent in the relocation effort is that little to no consideration has been given to those who have a current reasonable accommodation (“RA”) for an office or quiet space or to those who will need one in the new location due to the changed setup of the agency office. The union has raised as an preemptive issue that workspace RAs should be considered and properly addressed and now, in preparation for the bargaining we are seeking information related to our BUE’s with disabilities.
A finite amount of space is being leased in the new building and each BUE has been allocated a work area of 64 square feet (each agency decides if the work areas will be cubicles or open space concept). This could be highly problematic for those BUEs who, because of their condition (i.e., tinnitus, hyperacusis, ADHD/ADD, PTSD) need quiet or enclosed spaces to work in order to minimize audio and visual distractions or who have light sensitivities. There are other disabilities as well that may also need to be accommodated or a RA modified as a result of the move (such as those who due to a disability need more space because a workplace personal assistant has been provided to them or they use a service-animal).
With regard to the Curtis Center relocation and potential work space issue, in order for the union to protect your rights in the move, we need to know whose needs related to a medical condition may not be met in a 64 foot workspace cubicle or open space area floor plan. We understand that medical information is sensitive and some BUEs may not want to disclose their diagnosis or RA. However, please know that If you provide the information only geneal information will be shared - not to include your name or associate your name with a specific diagnosis with unless it becomes necessary and you are first advised.
Please send information to EVP Nicole Byerley and feel free to contact her with any questions related to the relocation.