Union seeks arbitration in Olsen case

The union representing Havre firefighters is filing for arbitration with the city of Havre over a controversial written reprimand given to firefighter D.J. Olsen.

In a brief statement issued this morning, the union said its representatives had met with the city attorney and begun the process of picking an arbitrator.

The state Labor Department supplies a list of the potential arbitrators and the two sides take turns eliminating them one by one until all but one is eliminated.

There is no indication how long the process will take.

The city had contended that Olsen wasn’t entitled to arbitration under the city’s contract with the International Association of Fire Fighters. Only firefighters disciplined with suspension or dismissal could opt for the arbitration, city officials said.

The opinion was challenged by firefighters.

Firefighters wouldn’t elaborate, and Mayor Tim Solomon said he hadn't talked to City Attorney Jennifer Forsyth and referred questions to her. She did not return phone calls seeking clarification.

Olsen was reprimanded for several infractions. The union said the letter was in retaliation for a complaint he filed with city officials about Assistant Chief Mel Paulson and his alleged abusive behavior.

The matter became public when Olsen waived his right to a closed hearing before the city council’s Police and Fire Committee.