Letters

I would like to thank the Civil Service Employees Association for their diligence and professionalism in negotiating a new contract with the village [“Southampton Village, CSEA Reach Agreement on New Five-Year Deal,” 27east.com, April 19]. Specifically, Village CSEA President Mauricio Espinoza and Labor Relations Specialist Jay Diaz were hardworking, fair and negotiated in good faith throughout the process.

The CSEA union represents the Department of Public Works employees, as well as many of the village administrative and clerical employees.

Together, we were able to compromise and come to an agreement that is beneficial to both the long-term goals of the village, as well as an agreement that showed appreciation and respect toward the many outstanding and honorable CSEA employees who help improve the village day in and day out.

I cannot thank our CSEA employees enough. Without your sacrifice and hard work, the Village of Southampton would not be the same. Our parks and beaches are beautiful, our roads and streets are in good order, our buildings are well-maintained, village-owned vehicles are all in great shape, and day-to-day operations run smoothly because of their efforts.

I am proud to be able to work with these excellent individuals, who are the backbone of the community and who often work behind the scenes to get the job done. Their friendly character and work ethic is what makes so much of our village special. Everything they do for us is greatly appreciated.

However, I would also like to take a moment to address the comments made by a village public official that appeared in last week’s edition of The Southampton Press. I agree with CSEA President Mauricio Espinoza in taking issue with these comments. The concerns that were brought up during a public meeting were inappropriate and do not reflect my own opinion on the negotiations of this contract, as their negotiations were done in good faith and with high integrity.

Thank you again to the CSEA and its members. Southampton Village would not work without you. I am very happy we could accomplish this fair and beneficial contract for all.

Jesse Warren

Mayor

Village of Southampton