Another loss for Gainesville city commissioners in their battle with employee unions-- and it may have been the final blow.
The Supreme Court of Florida denied the city's request for a hearing... upholding the former ruling, which will require the city to restore the old formula for employees who have retired.
At the end of June, the First District Court of Appeals ruled that the city commission was wrong to change those benefits without negotiating with the unions, so the city appealed to the State Supreme Court.
The unanimous decision handed down late Tuesday will also have an impact on cities statewide that joined Gainesville's appeal.
Paul Donnelly said "Well it reaffirms years and years of long standing law that changes have to be negotiated and the city cannot resort to self help."
The City is reviewing the ruling and is waiting to comment on the financial and legal implications.