Federal arbitrator recommends throwing out Tulsa city employee pay cut

Tulsa city employees score a big win in negotiations after a federal arbitrator recommends throwing out a pay cut. <br><br>The union that represents city workers held a news conference Tuesday. The federal

Tuesday, September 30th 2003, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

Tulsa city employees score a big win in negotiations after a federal arbitrator recommends throwing out a pay cut.

The union that represents city workers held a news conference Tuesday. The federal arbitrator found that other avenues of savings should be explored instead of a 2% salary cut for employees. That wage cut went into effect July 1st as a cost saving measure.

The arbitrators' ruling isn't binding, but union employees hope itâ€™s a step in the right direction. Union President Mark Stodghill, "Our membership has been very eager for this decision. We've been sitting on pins and needles, hoping for a positive answer. They've all been convinced this two percent pay cut wasn't necessary and now they want the right thing done."

The mayor's office says it needs more time to look over the decision before accepting, rejecting or amending the recommendations.