Vulgarity No More at Council 94

Apparently there was a "vulgarity" problem at Council 94 and J. Michael Downey ain't gonna take it anymore (h/t).

In an internal memo obtained by The Journal, Council 94 President J. Michael Downey tells staff that he will be "fully involved in the decision-making process" of union leadership following the departure of former executive director Dennis Grilli.

"As president of this council, it is my obligation to ensure that the members' hard earned dues dollars are put to the very best use on their behalf," Downey wrote in the Nov. 20 memo. "In this regard, it is my observation that some staff need significant improvement. Let me be clear. I expect that all of you (sic) to give full measure to the job you have been assigned."

He continued: "In addition, this council will not tolerate any form of disrespect or use of vulgar language and gestures -- either toward the members or to your fellow staff."

....There wasn't a specific incident that prompted the warning, he said, but rather a culture inside the union's Charles Street headquarters in which staff members regularly swear at each other or other union members. He also cited regular use of vulgar hand gestures.

"We don't want that here," Downey said. "If they don't work on the things I outlined, we will have a problem.... We're not talking about layoffs; we're talking about progressive discipline."