For the first time in Monarch history labor negotiations are open to the public. This may also be the first time anywhere that elected officials working for the citizens have opened labor agreement negotiations with a public employee union. We are delighted to see it as a successful effort though the union has lodged a complaint about the open process. Missouri law is quite clear, labor negotiations may be held in an open forum. While the Board expected interest from the taxpayers, it was a pleasant surprise to see many fire fighters are also wanting to watch the process. We encourage residents to attend any of the board meetings but if you are only interested in the negotiations, the next session will be held on November 19th.