As our readers know, Section 19 allows for a retiree representative on the employee bargaining committee, who is designated by our Association. This committee negotiates with town officials to establish a health insurance plan for all retirees, employers and survivors.

"For Reading's retirees (and survivors), we believe that we've made an excellent selection," continues Stillman. "Association member Arthur Vars has accepted our invitation to serve as the retiree representative on that town's employee bargaining committee."

Vars, a retired firefighter, has been the retiree representative on Reading's insurance advisory committee (IAC) and actively involved in the town's implementation of coalition bargaining. Before retiring and joining the IAC, Vars had been the local union's insurance representative for some 25 years.

"I agree that the Association has made a great choice," adds Bob Beck, the local firefighters' union president. "Art is well-respected by all parties - whether from labor or management."

Under the coalition bargaining law, Vars will have a 10% vote on the employee bargaining committee, with the remaining 90% being allocated among the local unions according to their respective size. Section 19 also requires that committee members, who represent at least 70% of the total vote, approve a health insurance plan.