Union conflict to show up at sheriff's fundraiser

By Times Staff Writer
Published February 27, 2008

In what's certain to be a lucrative night for his re-election campaign, Pasco Sheriff Bob White will be honored Friday at a $100-a-plate fundraising dinner at a private Land O'Lakes ranch.

The host committee, according to the invitation, includes the cream of Pasco County politics. The honorary chairs are a roll call of local Republican officeholders, plus two Democrats. The night's special guest: none other than Florida Gov. Charlie Crist.

A few of White's deputies might show up, too, but not at the festivities.

The Fraternal Order of Police, the union that has been locked in a contract dispute with the sheriff for more than a year, will rally on State Road 52 across from the entrance of the 4G Ranch as the guests arrive.

"Needless to say, you won't be sitting in a posh environment with the sheriff and his friends," organizers wrote to union members this week. "You will be outside, standing side by side with those you work with and/or those who believe in you as a deputy sheriff and want what you want."

The union is deadlocked with White over gap medical insurance for retirees and the agency's discipline process.

[Last modified February 26, 2008, 21:22:31]