On May 17, Santa Paula SEIU 721 members met with city management and shared their ideas of how to streamline services and save vital resources without reducing services. Later that evening, SEIU members attended the City Council meeting. Workers asked the Council to consider the alternatives they offered instead of cutting services that would harm the community.
In addition to describing cost saving measures, members spoke about the California Mortgage Relief Bill that was available to Santa Paula to help generate revenue that would offset the costs incurred by cities because of increased foreclosures.
“The banks have been bailed out and now it’s time for them to help pay their fair share to the
cities that were harmed by their actions. I urge Santa Paula City Council to pass the ordinance to enact SB 1137 in order to help preserve services and jobs” said Scott Brown, Water Operator II/Public Works.
To learn more about SB 1137 and how some cities are passing local ordinances in order to recoup vital funds for their budget caused by foreclosures (click here).
Santa Paula workers and community members held up “Community First” signs while SEIU members spoke. SEIU members will continue meeting with the City and are determined to save quality services for Santa Paula residents.