Donovan appeal of Bergen sheriff’s contract has to wait until next week

YOU READ IT HERE FIRST: An appeal by Bergen County Executive Kathleen Donovan of a judge’s order to pay pay wages negotiated with sheriff’s officers more than a year ago will have to wait at least until next week to move forward.

Jerry DeMarco

01/11/2013 9:22 p.m.

Superior Court Judge Joseph Conte announced today that he hasn’t decided on Donovan’s request that he suspend his order so that the state Appellate Division can hear her request to overturn his order.

Conte said he will issue his decision sometime next week.

The motion to stay is a technical requirement that would allow Donovan’s appeal to move forward.

Although the contract with PBA Local #134 was approved by the county freeholders, Donovan has refused to pay the increases, contending she should have been allowed to sit in on the negotiations.

Conte, however, cited a state statute that says county executives can participate in negotiations involving departments but not offices, such as Bergen County Sheriff Michael Saudino, who is an elected official.

SEE: Judge finds ‘hardship’ in Donovan preventing Bergen sheriff’s officers pay raises

STORY, CONTE PHOTO: Mary K. Miraglia

Click here to follow Daily Voice Fort Lee and receive free news updates.