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Ventura County Contract Ratified!

Dora-Saenz-Belden-sm.jpg "I'm thrilled that we had so many members participate in the vote. The large turnout shows that members are becoming more involved and that makes us all a lot stronger." - Dora Saenz-Belden

SEIU members overwhelmingly ratified a 26-month contract with the County of Ventura that includes a 7.5% raise across the board and market based adjustments. Ballots were mailed to 3,157 members and more than 1,000 ballots were returned. Members will see their first increase of the new contract in September.

The agreement was approved by 92% of those voting.
The Final Count was:
887 YES votes
79 NO Votes

THE AGREEMENT
 Ventura County workers been in negotiations with the County for four months. The agreement includes substantial salary raises and benefits that will ensure recruitment and retention, and continue the delivery of quality public services.

Based on surveys gathered from SEIU members throughout Ventura County, healthcare was one of the top two priorities for workers. Controlling healthcare costs amid skyrocketing health care insurance premiums proved tobe challenging for our bargaining teams. Yet, after we led successful public lobby efforts at the Board of Supervisors, the County increased its offer on health benefits to $260 bi-weekly, effective the first day of the pay period for new plan year, and another increase to $273 in2008.

Members also listed salaries as a top negotiating priority. Initially the County proposed a 3% salary increase citing budget constraints. At our urging to invest in its workers, the County increased their salary offer to 7.5% across the board. Workers will also receive market-based pay, certification payments, shift differentials, and Textbook and Tuition reimbursement.

The agreement includes improved language to protect workers’ rights: improved language for organizational leave, clearer grievance procedures, fair discipline matters, and protections against excess caseload. SEIU will also now have a voice in the Behavioral Health and Safety Committee,and Human Services Agency Caseload Committee.