PERB purports to deny union members, media, the public

the right to observe a public body act

ALJ deliberately scheduled an in person conference in Brooklyn after excluded interested others from listening and observing. PERB places its own integrity and impartiality in question by purporting to be able to conduct secret proceedings





-----Original Message-----
From: Melanie Wlasuk(PERB) <Mwlasuk@perb.ny.gov>
To: pointreyes@verizon.net <pointreyes@verizon.net>
Cc: John Wirenius(PERB) <JWirenius@perb.ny.gov>; Nancy Burritt(PERB) <nburritt@perb.ny.gov>; Angela Blassman(PERB) <ablassman@perb.ny.gov>
Sent: Wed, Jul 8, 2020 05:15 PM
Subject: PERB conferences

Dear Mr. Leeds:

In response to your concerns regarding PERB pre-hearing conferences and our processes, please be advised as follows:

First, PERB pre-hearing conferences are not, and never have been, open to the public. For the most part, only parties and their representatives may attend such conferences.  Judge Blassman had the right to inquire as to whom was on the conference call, and it is expected that participants will cooperate with the judge and follow all procedural directives. Accordingly, when her directions were not complied with, she was correct in terminating the conference call.

Second, all PERB pre-hearing conferences are now being held telephonically, due to the current Coronavirus situation.  This practice is for the health and safety of everyone, including you.

Please understand that PERB’s processes are meant to protect the integrity of the conference, and also comport with certain new restrictions that are in place for the protection of our constituents during these difficult times.  We ask for your cooperation and understanding so that our judges can continue to process all cases, including yours, as efficiently as possible.

Sincerely yours,

Melanie Wlasuk, Director

Public Employment Practices and Representation