Case: Labor Arbitration/Discipline (Arb.)

Arbitrator Thomas J. Nowel sustained in part and denied in part a grievance filed by the International Association of Firefighters Local 2129 against the City of North Ridgeville, Ohio, finding the city lacked just cause to impose a ten-tour, 240-hour suspension on the grievant, a firefighter/paramedic with over 21 years of service and no prior discipline. The grievant was disciplined for allegedly refusing a driving assignment and being verbally aggressive toward his captain, lieutenant, and fire chief. Arbitrator Nowel ruled that the grievant’s conduct did not constitute gross misconduct under the collective bargaining agreement, noting no profanity, no physical aggression, ...