Town employees in Seneca Falls organizing their union with the Civil Service Employees Association (CSEA) are accusing town officials of engaging in union-busting practices, despite public assurances of cooperation. This tension unfolds as workers continue their fight for official recognition of their union.
In August, the Town Board approved a resolution (3-2) to voluntarily recognize the newly formed CSEA union. However, Town Supervisor Frank Schmitter and Deputy Supervisor Frank Sinicropi ignored the resolution, prompting CSEA to seek intervention from the New York State Public Employment Relations Board (PERB). Despite submitting a detailed list of titles for union inclusion, town leaders denied receipt of the information, further delaying the process.
“Mr. Schmitter has made public statements claiming we are close to a deal, but those claims have proven false,” said Dale Gibson, a Highway Department employee. CSEA leaders also allege unlawful targeting of employees and exclusion of key roles, such as the Code Enforcement Officer, from the bargaining unit.
According to CSEA representatives, such actions violate the Taylor Law, which protects public employees’ rights to organize without interference. “This is textbook union-busting,” said CSEA Central Region President Kenny Greenleaf. “Management’s tactics to fracture unity are costing taxpayers thousands while denying workers their rights.”
The dispute has drawn sharp criticism from workers and union leaders who accuse town officials of prioritizing delay tactics over resolving the matter. “It’s hypocrisy,” said Greenleaf, citing the significant expenses incurred by the town on legal counsel and other union-busting activities.
The CSEA, which represents more than 250,000 public and private sector employees across New York, has vowed to continue the fight, ensuring no employees are left behind in the unionization process. “Our group won’t leave anyone behind,” said Peter Porcelli, Zoning and Code Enforcement Officer.
As the battle continues, workers are calling on town leadership to honor their commitments and comply with state labor laws.
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