June 24, 2014 - Tonight’s vote by a majority of City Council members to override my veto of the ordinance to end collective bargaining for non-public safety union employees is disappointing and unnecessary.

At a time when we’re experiencing unprecedented momentum in the City of Fort Wayne by working together, six members of City Council decided to lead a divisive effort to hurt award-winning city employees and send a message to our residents and businesses that their philosophy on unions means more than investing in our future, attracting and retaining jobs, and being a leader in quality of life and neighborhood enhancements.

I want to thank Councilmen Hines, Paddock, and Shoaff for standing up for what is right. They are leaders and strong advocates for our community.

My leadership team has begun the process of identifying executive order options that we can utilize to continue to value and protect our employees who commit themselves each day to provide excellent, affordable, and life-saving services.

We will win the future and overcome the obstacles that have been placed in front of us. We are a city on the move. We are poised for growth, investment, and prosperity.