New and/or Changed Classification. When a new classification within the Bargaining Unit is established by the Employer, the Employer shall determine the rate of pay for such new classification. Once the rate is determined, and then within seven (7) days, the Employer shall advise the Union of the Rate. If the Union disagrees with the rate, it shall have the right to request a meeting with the Employer. At such meeting, the parties will review the rate; the Employer’s rationale for establishing the rate, and the reasons the Union disagrees with the rate. If the parties reach agreement, the agreement is effective as of the date on which the Employer gave the Union notice of the new rate. When the Employer makes a substantial change in the job content of an existing classification which causes such classification to become a new classification, the employer agrees to meet with the Union if requested to permit the Union to make representation with respect to the appropriate rate of pay. If the parties are unable to reach an agreement, either party may refer the dispute to arbitration, as provided in this agreement, provided the referral is made within fifteen (15) days of the meeting. Any decision by a Board of Arbitration, or Arbitrator as the case may be, shall be based on the relationship established by comparison with the rates for other classifications in the Bargaining Unit having regard to the requirements of such classifications. Any change awarded because of arbitration shall be retroactive only to the date on which the Employer gave the Union notice of the new rate.
