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Union: Deal that led to mayor's indictment was never secret

The Associated Press | Thursday, Jul 6 2006 6:15 PM

Last Updated: Thursday, Jul 6 2006 6:15 PM

The Teamsters union on Thursday defended the $11 million garbage contract that led to the indictment of Mayor Ron Gonzales.

Gonzales is accused of pressuring Norcal Waste Systems Inc., into using the Teamsters - instead of a lower-paid union - at a recycling plant. Prosecutors allege he then secretly agreed to help the trash contractor recoup the extra labor expenses at a taxpayer expense.

Union officials said at a news conference on Thursday that there was never a "secret" deal.

"How can I be in a secret deal when I went and testified before the entire city council and we lobby everybody and we talk to every staff member," said Robert Morales with the Teamster's local.

"I cannot concede a secret deal when you talk to everybody who will listen to you," he said.

Gonzales has been charged in an indictment with six felonies, including conspiracy, bribery, misappropriating public funds and falsifying records. If convicted, he could face up to eight years in prison.

Gonzales maintains he's done nothing wrong and plans to plead not guilty at a court hearing scheduled for July 26.

The San Jose City Council has asked Gonzales to quit, but he has said he won't resign.