Mayor Thomas Menino was the first in this state to boldly challenge the right of city and town unions to reject money saving initiatives when it comes to their municipality provided and paid for health insurance policies and premiums.
The mayor’s foresight has been given new weight, as his money-saving initiatives are being included in the House version of the state budget and even by the governor.
The difference, however, is that Menino didn’t simply sweep away bargaining rights earned by unions over the years.
His version of the health care saving initiative includes bargaining rights for union members – as well it should.
Once again, the mayor has shown he knows how to lead.
The savings for the city in the next four years are estimated at $70 million.
It is because of leadership on issues like health insurance that the mayor remains in office as our mayor after all these years.