Police union files lawsuit against city

How sad and disappointing this latest action of the POA against the citizens of SB whom they are sworn to serve and protect. Their/this selfish one sided take as if THEY are the only ones in the United States that are being asked to give to assure the stability of their employer or the City of SB remains financially solvent is unbelieveable. I say citizens, because this is they these very citizens who will ultimately have to pay for whatever solution to this dilemma is obtained. While other City employees have recognized the severity of the short and long term problem that confronts the City leadership and has joined hands to help work through this difficult period, the PD/POA has taken a “we are above or better than you” approach and challenged this unified solution in the courts. It will no doubt drive the costs incurred by the City higher in a time when money is scarce.

I find it appalling that the gall of the POA (leadership) has elected to hold the citizens of SB hostage from their self-appointed pedestal. This action has signified a new low for organized labor (unions). Never let it be said the POA is for the betterment of the whole. They are solely out for themselves as suspected yesterday and now proven today. How disappointing are these actions of not only the POA leadership but most of all from or by the rank and file of the PD which have allowed it. Your actions say a lot to the citizens and voters of SB and will be remember now regardless of the outcome.

Again, I urge the City leadership to thoroughly investigate and seek a way to employ the SB Sheriff Dept for police services for the City of San Bernardino. Our current PD has lost their vision and focus that one thought was to serve the public or citizens of SB, and NOT just the POA. There is a better solution and organization out there, one that does not talk of police work slowdowns (as mentioned in previous blogs on this subject by POA representatives or supporters) and one that fully understands that the problems faced by the City of SB were not the result of current leadership actions. The SB City Leadership only needs to exercise some creative decision making and work with the SBSD to make it a reality.

Reader Bob:
There is no way that Pat Morris will allow the SB Sheriff's department to take over SBPD. He has Bildt in his pocket and that wouldn't happen with SBSD. The Police Chief (and Fire Chief) in this city serve at that pleasure of the Mayor - so Pat gets to pick who is Chief (and with that goes who will tolerate/participate in the massive black tax money hole known as Operation Phoenix). There aren't even enough votes on the council to try to do something - Kelley, Brinker, Baxter and Johnson will vote however they are directed by Pat. End of story.
Anyway, if you were watching the last council meeting it became evident that those on the dias enjoy a "special" kind of policing that we, the common folk, don't get like extra patrols, etc. So why should they care?

Your comments are valid and have merit. Thanks!! However, please do not forget the PD Chief's days are numbered as he is retiring. Also, this is an election year for the Mayor and unless he arranges for the next coming of Christ, he too is a goner. With his track record and total lack of management/leadership skills as demonstrated countless times, the voters I would expect to elect Howdy Doody before Mr. Pat Morris again. That said...the POA has demonstrated to this same audience of voters that they feel themselves above the remainder of the City Team and expect privileged treatment during this time of financial instability. They refuse to do their part, they have a hidden agenda and the public can now see it. Additionally, they (or one of theirs) is speaking of a "work slowdown" which is unheard of in law enforcement. Leadership in the POA must change or the PD must change and change is spelled Sheriff Department. Read the blogs…it is there for all to read.

Bob - I can't even follow your comments anymore. First you were in support of the PD now you seem against them.

In both situations, Police and Fire, they made concessions along with the City Manager. Then at the last minute the City Manager changed their minds and said it wasn't enough.

These guys don't mind giving but it has to be fair! The city is not being fair - they are doing back-door deals and trying to switch things on the guys. Hasn't this gone on long enough. How are families supposed to plan.

Why all of a sudden are you pro-sheriff? Do you not know they just got a raise? Give me a break!

You really need to get a life and stop blogging - I think your mind is getting clouded. Seriously I can't even stand to read your blogs anymore.

Enough Said!

Reader Bob,

Before you start running your mouth about the POA maybe you so know what you're talking about. At what point have you been held "hostage"? Get real! The men and women of SBPD have been lied to by the administration, the mayor and the city manager (look at what he is now doing to the firefighters)! These brave men and women were served pink slip after being welcomed to the family. The officers were handed their notices indicating the end of their employment with the "family" and then BOB, they went out on the streets of San Bernardino and did what they swore to do.....to Protect and Serve, BOB!

Just ignore Reader bob. He has no life.