“According to the coalition bargaining law (Section 19), our Association designates the retiree representative on the PEC,” comments Legislative Chairman Bill Hill. “As our designee, Zerofski, along with union representatives who also sit on the PEC, negotiate with officials over the health insurance plans for the town’s retirees, survivors and employees.

“When Tewksbury adopted Section 19, Merrill (Marshall) was our first choice, and he did an outstanding job. But, he felt that it was time for a fresh new face on the committee, and we respect his decision to step aside.

“Having served on the union bargaining committee during his years in the fire department, Zerofski has the experience necessary. We’re confident that he will continue the excellent work on the PEC begun by Merrill.”

“They’re big shoes to fill,” says Zerofski. “I want my fellow retirees, survivors and their families to know that I wouldn’t accept this unless I committed myself fully to the job at hand. It’s the only way that I operate.”

Ed. Note: Tewksbury retirees and survivors can contact Phil Zerofski at 145 East St, Tewksbury, MA 01876. The names and addresses of the retiree designees for the other communities, that have adopted Section 19, can be found in the January’07 Voice.