Print service employees question changes in pay grade

Staff Council President-elect Henry Castillo told Staff Council members Tuesday that jobs being offered to district print employees are not guaranteed to retain their pay grades when transferred to new district jobs.

He said some of the employees are talking to district human resources personnel about a reduction in pay for some employees at district headquarters, St. Philip's and Palo Alto colleges and this college.

At the regular board meeting Tuesday night, District 1 trustee Joe Alderete asked if employees were retaining a position with Alamo Colleges and if moves would still be at the same pay rate.

Diane Snyder, vice chancellor for finance and administration, said the employees are guaranteed a position, but they are not guaranteed the same pay rate.

She said the pay level depends on the position they assume, their qualifications and experience.

At the regular board meeting Tuesday the board awarded the contract to Thomas Reprographics.

The 11 people whose jobs are being eliminated are going to be moved to positions across the district within 60-90 days.

Staff Council President Geraldo R. Guerra provided the background of print services being outsourced in the amount of $44,600 monthly to Thomas Reprographics Inc.

The district expects to save $350,000 annually by outsourcing its print services.

Guerra said there would be two pickups a day. Print requests made before 1 p.m. would be in the same day, but requests made after 1 p.m. would either be returned the next day or could have a four-hour turnaround depending on the complexity and size of the order.

He said online services are being offered, but he did not have details.

Guerra said everything should be finalized by November.

The next Staff Council meets at 2:30 p.m. Oct. 5 in Room 120 of the visual arts center.

Laura Garcia contributed to this story.