Staff Senate
Executive Committee Meeting
Minutes
April 12, 2002
I.
Call to Order - Alan Selser called the meeting to order at 8:00 a.m. In
attendance were: Linda Abresch, Marvin Ames, Mike Burton, Maggie Cohea, Michael
Elliott, Nancy Isaacs, Dave Gutoskey, Ross Leisten, Judy Lowe, Mary Luke, Marylane
McGlinchey, Donald Pryor, Alan Selser, Melanie Stefursky, Donna Test, Tammy Trivits,
Estella Young and Vaughn White. Absent were: Linda Beall and Kevin Mann.
Guests in attendance: James Brittingham, Maurice Jones and Dale Maddox.
Special guests: Jane Fandray, University Dining, and Bill Pennewell, IT.
II.
Minutes – Melanie Stefursky
Motion by Linda Abresch, seconded by Donna Test, that the Minutes of the
March 21 meeting be approved as mailed. Motion carried unanimously.
III.
Chair’s Report – Alan Selser
A.
Shared Governance –
1.
The following memo from President Dudley-Eshbach was read by Selser.
“This is to inform you that numerous unfair labor practice (ULP)
charges have been filed against the Salisbury University
administration. The outcome ultimately will determine much of
what can and cannot be discussed and decided through the process
of shared governance. The most recent ULP charge asks the
Higher Education Labor Relations Board (HELRB) to direct SU to
“cease and desist from using the Staff Senate as a means or forum
with which to deal with SU’s workforce over terms and conditions
of employment.” ASFCME alleges that certain policies which to
date we have been discussing in Staff Senate and the Forum are
mandatory subjects of bargaining.
Until a ruling is made by the HELRB on the ULP charges, and
until the USM Board of Regents has clarified the role of shared
governance, on the advice of legal counsel, the SU administration
will not discuss issues such as and including the progressive
discipline policy, the theater ticket policy and the compensation
policy for emergency conditions, at least as these matters pertain to
non-exempt employees who will be represented by their bargaining
unit.
I wish to reiterate my commitment to working with faculty,
students, and exempt staff through the process of shared
governance. Please understand, however, that certain policies that
would affect non-exempt employees will not be discussed in any
forum, at least until it is determined which of these are mandatory
subjects of bargaining.
Please feel free to share this message with your constituent
groups.”
2.
The following memo from Linda Beall was read by Selser:
“Good morning, I apologize that I cannot be here this morning. I received
a subpoena to appear in court in regard to a custody hearing for one of my
AmeriCorps members. I hope I can support her.
After much reflection I believe the staff senate can survive collective
bargaining and remain a positive role model for Salisbury University. We
must remain strong as senators and be committed to serving Salisbury
University. For the remainder of this current senate year, we must
suspend talks about issues that are Human Resource matters. If you feel
you have a critical staff item to discuss please refer it to Human
Resources. This includes all issues relating to staff of the university. Our
role will be defined for us in the near future.
As to what our purpose is now, we must carry on as senators and be
respectful to each others opinions and differences. We can discuss ways
to increase moral on campus: such as promoting the staff picnic, BOR
awards and other types of recognition (instead of once a year, maybe once
a month) safety issues, diversity issues, meal plans, Gull Cards, committee
meetings etc. Please discuss today any ideas you may have.
It is imperative you come to the Staff Senate Meetings without including
your personal agendas. There will be no hiding behind the staff you
represent. If you feel, you cannot do this, please resign from the Senate.
The Staff Senate purpose is not to provide anyone information detrimental
to the University.
I am asking each of you for your support to carry on this mission and
purpose of the Staff Senate. We have unfortunately encountered a fork in
the road but it makes us only stronger.
Sincerely, Linda”
Staff Picnic – Melanie Stefursky
The President has decided to cancel the staff picnic scheduled for May 23 as well
as the faculty welcome back planned in August due to budgetary constraints. The
President has just returned from the USM Office with a clearer idea of the financial
difficulties this university will be facing next year. I know she very much wanted to
support this picnic as a way of acknowledging the work and dedication of all staff. This
university is kept going by its staff. But given the hard decisions that will have to be
made given our limited economic resources, the President felt we simply could not spend
a significant amount of money on these two events this year.
IV.
V.
Casual Day – Donna Test
Some departments dress casually one day a week.
Motion by Judy Lowe, seconded by Marvin Ames, that the Benefits and
Compensation Committee develop a plan to observe “Casual Day” each
Friday. On Friday employees would wear casual attire. After the
recommendations are submitted and approved by the Staff Senate, they will
be forwarded to the President for approval. Motion carried unanimously.
VI.
Open Staff Meeting – Alan Selser
Executive Committee needs to set agenda for Open Staff Meeting set for May 13.
Items include nomination of new senators and short reports by each standing
committee of the Staff Senate. Suggestions for agenda items should be forwarded
to Linda Beall or Alan Selser.
VII.
Fall 2002 Meal Plans – Jane Fandray, director of University Dining
Fandray outlined the new Mail Plan Program for 2002-2003. Approximately
1,750 students currently live on campus and many more computer students utilize
University Dining. Fandray stated that a food advisory committee meets once a
week. The committee consists of students, a representative of SGA and faculty.
Fandray asked Staff Senate to appoint a staff member to sit on the committee.
A copy of the new Meal Plan Program for 2002-2003 is attached to the Minutes.
VIII. Computers – Bill Pennewell, IT
Pennewell presented the unofficial surplus computer program, which follows.
o Program is not an “official” program. It is a joint effort of Inventory
Control and Information Technogy.
o It is based on the useful life of PCs at the University. PCs are only offered
through this program after they are no longer useful to SU (normally after
4 years) PCs cannot be given or sold to individuals (faculty, staff or
students).
o PCs offered through the program normally coincide with those computers,
which are currently being replaced on campus. ( ACER 200 mhz or
below)
o Program administration:
 Inventory Control and IT decide when to offer computers
 Inventory Control normally sends letter to agencies
 IT “wipes” computer and notifies respondents
o Rules and Regulations:
 Offer surplus computer equipment to State of Maryland agencies
first
 Agencies must send letters on agency letterhead
 Agencies must pick up and maintain all surplus computer
equipment
o Many State agencies do not want our surplus computers because they are
purchasing better computers or receive better computers from other
sources.
o Who benefits – SU and recipients.
o Recipients include the following schools and agencies:

Delmar Elementary School

Department of Natural Resources

Eastern Correctional Institution

James M. Bennett High School

Mardela Middle and High Schools

Pinehurst School

Wicomico County Board of Ed

Worcester County Board of Ed
o
Charities include the following:

Delmarva Community Services

Holly Foundation

Fruitland Community Center

Humane Society of Wicomico County







IX.
Living Stones Church
Maple Shade Youth & Family Services
Salisbury Bible Fellowship
Salvation Army
Somerset Historical Trust
Village of Hope
100 Good Men/Wicomico County
Committee Reports –
A.
CUSS report – Donna Test
No meeting since last report.
B.
Compensation and Benefits – Donna Test
Committee working on contingent grievance policy; however, committee
cannot make changes – Letter of recommendation cannot be sent due to
collective bargaining – no discussion.
Discussion that Committee should leave all non exempt issues for
collective bargaining and concentrate on contingent/exempt policies.
Motion by Linda Abresch, seconded by Melanie Stefursky that
Compensation and Benefits Committee continue to work on
Grievance Policy for Contingent employees. Motion carried
unanimously.
X.
C.
Staff Development and Training –
No policy to be discussed.
CUSS looking at PMP process
D.
Membership and Elections – Ross Leisten
Leisten resigned as second vice president and co chair of Membership and
Elections Committee (see Item 1) Leisten will assist Vaughn White in
running staff elections.
Compilation of ballots will be divided as follows:
Vaughn White – Exempt employees
Estella Young – Contingent
Donald Pryor – Non exempt
E.
Communications and Public Relations – Mike Burton
The Staff Senate boxes are being filled and used. USM link to CUSS is
being used. All information incorporated into hand outs.
Send information about Staff Senate to deans to be included in school
newsletters.
Old Business
Motion by Linda Abresch, seconded by Judy Lowe that in light of the letter sent out
to the Senate Presidents by President Dudley-Eshbach, the Staff Senate limit itself
to exempt, contingent, and grant employees' issues until there is a determination by
the SHELRB on the unfair labor practice charges and by the USM as to how Staff
Senates should proceed in conjunction with collective bargaining.
Motion carried unanimously.
XI.
New Business
A.
Human Resources Manager Search Committee – Alan Selser
A total of 58 applications received for position. These applications
are being reviewed by HR.
The committee is charged with providing 3 unranked nominees to
Richard Pusey, VP Finance
B.
Salary Posting –
Policy on Disclosure of Employee Salary Information Rescinded
Linda Abresch noted that the SU Newsletter of February 7, 2002
contained a statement that “a policy that was formally approved by the
former President’s Council on September 10, 1998, to restrict the
publishing or release for general distribution of SU employee salary
information has been rescinded.”
Motion by Dave Gutoskey, seconded by Marvin Ames, that under Roberts
Rules XIII-Items 72 and 75, the Staff Senate call for an investigation of Senator
Donald Pryor on the charge of sending unapproved internal communications with
out consent of originator of communications. Motion carried by a vote of 11 in
favor, 1 opposed and 1 abstention.
A committee will be formed which will convene and request an investigation of
the facts of the allegation. The committee is charged with gathering information.
The following senators, who were present at the meeting, volunteered to sit on the
committee: Judy Lowe, Maggie Cohea and Donna Test. Other senators will be asked to
volunteer.
Mike Burton suggested that it would be in the best interest of the Staff Senate to
speak with the Attorney General’s Office to make sure that the Senate is in compliance
with the Law. Alan Selser will contact Ann Donahue.
Meeting adjourned at 10:40 a.m.
ATTACHMENT
Traditional Meal Plans (For On-Campus Students)
Students living on campus may choose one of the three Traditional Meal Plans (A, B or C) listed
below. With a Traditional Meal Plan, you get the most value for your money and you never need to
worry about running out of meals. PLEASE NOTE: Residents of Chesapeake Hall and the
International House may also choose Meal Plan D or opt for no meal plan at all.
A: Everything Plan $1,750
• Unlimited Access to the Commons 7 days a week.
• $250 in Dining Dollars
• 6 guest passes
• A Just Because gift basket each month
B: All Day, Everyday Plan* $1,525
• Unlimited Access to the Commons 7 days a week.
• 4 guest passes
* Dining Dollars can be added to this plan at a 10% discount.
C: 12 Plus Plan $1,515
• 12 visits each week to the Commons (Monday-Sunday)
• $250 in Dining Dollars
• 2 guest passes
D: 10 Meal Plan* $1,075
• 10 visits each week to the Commons (Monday-Sunday)
• 2 guest passes
* Dining Dollars can be added to this plan at a 10% discount.
Commuter Meal Plans (For Off-Campus Students)
Meal Plans E, F & G were specifically designed with the off-campus lifestyle in mind. However,
students living off-campus may choose any of the Traditional Meal Plans (A, B, C or D) as well, or
opt to have no meal plan at all.
E: 5 Plus Plan $825
• 5 visits each week to the Commons (Monday-Sunday)
• $250 in Dining Dollars
• 2 guest passes
F: 5 Meal Plan* $600
• 5 visits each week to the Commons (Monday-Sunday)
• 2 guest passes
* Dining Dollars can be added to this plan at a 10% discount.
G: Any 50 Plan* $375
• 50 meals to use in the Commons each semester.
• 2 guest passes
* Dining Dollars can be added to this plan at a 10% discount.
What’s New For Fall 2002?
Unlimited Access Adds Convenience!
With Meal Plans A & B, unlimited access (UA) means that a student may enter the Commons at
anytime during operating hours, seven days a week, as many times as the student chooses.
No More Meal Periods!
Your meal plan will either provide unlimited visits to the Commons or will have a specific number of
“swipes” per week or per semester. Starting in fall 2002, you can enter as many times in one day as
you choose. So, you are not limited to to only one swipe for breakfast, one swipe for lunch or one
swipe for dinner.
For example, if you have the 12 Plus Plan (C), you can use all 12 swipes in one day if you wish. A
certain number of swipes per week are available—which day you use them is up to you!
Get The Everything Plan (A) And Receive A Just Because Gift Basket Each Month!
Just Because gift baskets are filled with goodies that are delivered to students. Students with the
Everything Plan (A) will receive one each month (a value of $24.95). Other Just Because gift baskets
are available—see our Just Because brochure for details.
Extended Dinner Hours in the Commons!
Starting April 1, the Commons will be open until 9 p.m. (Monday-Thursday) with a
modified food court (Kozy Kitchen Deli, Pete’s Za Pie and S.S. Grillers).
New Satellite Dining Location!
In fall 2002, another Satellite Dining location will be added to Henson Hall, the new
science building offering beverages and “to go” options.
Dining Dollars Add Flexibility!
Meal equivalency is being replaced with Dining Dollars so there will be no more
limitations on how much you can spend outside the Commons.
While your meal plan will only be accepted at the Commons, Dining Dollars can be used for
purchases made at any UDS location—The Gull’s Nest Pub & Eatery, Cool Beans Cyber Café, the
Commons and any of our Satellite Dining locations (Fulton Hall, Caruthers Hall, University Park
and Henson Hall).
• Dining Dollars ($250) are already included with the Everything Plan (A), the
12 Plus Plan (C) and the 5 Plus Plan (E).
EXAMPLE: $250 Dining Dollars will get you:
• 50 visits to the Gull’s Nest (or any UDS location) per semester (16 weeks) if you
spend $5 at each visit—this equals three visits per week!
• 83 visits to any UDS location per semester if you spend $3 at each visit—this equals
five visits per week (every day in the Gull’s Nest if you want)!
• Additional Dining Dollars are available for meal plan holders to purchase at a 10%
discount.
$200—cost is $180
$150—cost is $135
$100—cost is $90
$50—cost is $45
• Dining Dollar purchases are always tax free at any UDS location (save an
additional 5%)!
• Unused Dining Dollars are not refundable at the end of each semester and cannot carry
over to the next semester (so please spend them!).
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did UDS decide to change the meal plans?
In our surveys and focus groups, students have consistently requested changes in our meal plans.
While most students like our food and service, they have been asking for a meal plan with more
flexibility, which would permit them to use Cool Beans and our Satellite Dining locations at Fulton,
Caruthers and University Park.
Why did the cost of Meal Plan A go up so much?
When comparing our prices from this year to next, please compare the price of the
current 21 Plan to Plan B or C. Those are the “standard” plans. Traditionally our meal plan prices
increase by $50 each year. Plan A is the “super-sized” plan and is totally
optional.
Why can’t I still use my meals at the Gull’s Nest?
In order to offer students the option of using their meal plans in all locations, we needed to move to a
value-based system, where the student can choose the amount to be spent at each visit. It is not
feasible for us to provide a meal that is “equivalent” to what we serve in the Commons at our smaller
locations. Many students now use the equivalency in the Gull’s Nest and receive a much lower value.
For example: Some students go to the Gull’s Nest now and use their $4.99 “swipe”,
but they only purchase a bottled drink and bag of snacks that normally would only
cost $2.08 if they paid cash. Because of this “loss”, many students have expressed to
us their displeasure and actually feel “ripped off”. We believe that it is better for
students—and therefore UDS—if students can decide for themselves how much to spend and receive
full value for their money.
This is why we introduced “Dining Dollars” which are included in Plans A, C and E. They can be
used at all UDS locations including the Commons, the Gull’s Nest, Cool Beans, and each Satellite
Dining location.
Why can’t we have a plan that’s made up of only Dining Dollars?
In reality we do—it’s the Gull Card. We are offering a discount to students who
purchase a meal plan because we know that they will miss some of their meals. We
are trying to recognize that loss of meals by offering students a discount on additional purchases. If a
student does not make the meal plan commitment, we cannot offer the discount. So, consider placing
money on the Gull Card instead of using Dining Dollars.
At this time Dining Dollars are only for students with a meal plan.
Where can I use my Dining Dollars?
You can use Dining Dollars at any UDS location—the Commons, the Gull’s Nest, Cool Beans and our
Satellite Dining locations (Fulton, Caruthers, University Park and the new science building, Henson
Hall).
How can I check my Dining Dollar balance?
We will be working closely with the Gull Card Office so you can conveniently check your account
balances. Your balance will appear at the bottom of each sales receipt.
Where can I buy more Dining Dollars if I run out?
You will be able to buy Dining Dollars at any UDS cash register—the Commons, the Gull’s Nest,
Cool Beans and our Satellite Dining locations.
Are Dining Dollars the same as putting money on my Gull Card?
No, this is not the same thing. If you have a meal plan, you will either have Dining Dollars that are
already included in your plan or you may purchase additional ones. These are sold at a 10% discount
and can only be used at Dining Services locations. The money on your Gull Card can be used for
purchases in addition to dining—such as, laundry, books, off-campus locations, etc.
What happens if I have Dining Dollars left over at the end of the semester?
Unused Dining Dollars are not refundable at the end of each semester and cannot carry over to the
next semester (so please spend them!).
Why can’t we have “to go” options in the Commons?
Providing “to-go” options from the Commons is an issue with which we are still
struggling. We know and understand that students would like to have this service.
It certainly seems that a facility as complex and comprehensive as the Commons should be able to
encompass a take-out option. If our customers were all resident students, we could institute this
tomorrow.
But, half of our meal plan customers are commuter students who are not required to
purchase a plan and buy only partial plans. So a commuter student who now
purchases a 10 Meal Plan could purchase a 5 Meal Plan and take other meals to go.
This could unfairly increase our costs which would have to be passed along to residents.
Without employing the “food police” to monitor your activity while in the Commons,
we cannot figure out how to prevent this. We are open to suggestions!