LA City workers represented by SEIU 721 and the five other unions in the Coalition of LA City Unions voted to preserve services for an agreement to see our City through this crisis to better times. The votes – which were tallied last night – were overwhelmingly in favor of ratification.
Nearly half of SEIU members – more than 3,300 overall – voted across six bargaining units by an average of 86% to approve the agreement. SEIU’s biggest unit, MOU 4, saw 96% yes votes. The turnout reflected the engagement of SEIU members throughout this campaign.
“We all know we’re going through the worst economic crisis in our lifetime. But it’s also an opportunity. We made some difficult choices, and it took a lot of hard work. But everyone should be applauded for getting through it and coming to a resolution that sets an example for cities everywhere.” – SEIU 721 President Bob Schoonover
Schoonover announced the ratification at a press conference today at LA City Hall, along with City Council President Eric Garcetti, and faith leaders Reverend Eric J. Lee, President of the Souther Christian Leadership Conference LA; Reverend Lewis Logan, Pastor of Ruach Christian Community Fellowship; and Reverend William Smart, Christ Liberty Tabernacle Church.
“Today is a milestone we can all celebrate just a little bit.” – LA City Council President Eric Garcetti
This agreement is the product of more than a year of hard work. It saves the services we proudly provide every day. It averts mandatory furloughs that would have cut our wages by 10%; it averts layoffs, and provides early retirement incentives for some of our most dedicated long-term City workers. It helps our younger workers continue to support their families and build lasting careers with the City. It guarantees that all Coalition members will maintain a solid, reliable income through this economic downturn. It helps keep our City working without the shock of massive layoffs.
Click here to read more details about the agreement and what it means for you.