Title 1 - Preamble

1.1 Purpose

This Memorandum of Understanding (hereinafter referred to as Memorandum) entered into by the Modesto Irrigation District (hereinafter referred to as the District) and the Local Union 1245 of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (hereinafter referred to as the Union), has as its purpose the promotion of harmonious relations, cooperation and understanding between the District and the Union; the establishment of an equitable and peaceful procedure for resolution of differences; and agreement as to rates of pay, hours of work and other terms and conditions of employment.

1.2 Cooperation

The District and the Union will cooperate in promoting harmony and efficiency among District employees.

1.3 Maintenance of Service

The District is engaged in providing public services requiring continuous operations that are necessary to maintain the public health and safety of the District's customers. The obligation to maintain these public services is imposed upon the District, the Union and the employees represented by the Union. Inherent in the relationships among the District, the Union, and the employees represented by the Union is the obligation of the District to deal justly and fairly with its employees and the obligation of the Union and the employees represented by the Union to cooperate with management in the performance of the District's public services obligations.

1.4 Separability

In the event any section or portion of this Agreement is declared invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction or is in contravention of any federal or state law or regulation, the remaining provisions of this Agreement shall not be invalidated and shall remain in full force and effect.

1.5 Preexisting Directives

This Memorandum shall not be construed as abrogating or impairing any preexisting directive issued by the District's Board of Directors or its General Manager.