MOSES LAKE - Moses Lake Irrigation and Rehabilitation District employees joined the Teamsters Union.

District general manager Curt Carpenter told his board Tuesday night he received a notice informing him of the news.

They are now in the negotiating stages, Carpenter said.

District employee Chris Wilson said Carpenter doesn't represent them at all.

Board president Mick Hansen said he realizes management does not.

"Staff felt their jobs were threatened," Wilson said. "Payroll is locked up in the budget. Everyone's positions are locked up in the approved budget."

A revised budget was approved January, but the board is in the process of amending it.

Hansen asked if Wilson felt the union was going to help them.

"The union is protection for our jobs," Wilson replied.

Hansen asked if they brought it to the board before this.

Wilson said it was the first time.

"I think we need legal counsel on this, on if you can do this before bringing it to the board," Hansen said.

Wilson said they could.

Hansen said they would check with legal council and get back to the employees.

"They don't have to have our permission," said board director Ron Covey.

Hansen said "No, but I think there's a certain amount of time and hearings and I think you have to go to the people writing the checks."

Board director Rich Archer asked which employees were represented.

Wilson said all employees but Carpenter.

A Teamsters employee at the Moses Lake office declined to comment Wednesday.