As the City of Hemet faces a $3.3 million deficit and the potential closure of a library, fire station and senior center and public safety cuts, SEIU 721 members have stepped up to help maintain services.
SEIU 721 members in Hemet are responding to the economic crisis during contract negotiations by providing collaborative solutions that focus on the greater good of the community.
“The entire bargaining group expressed concern for the residents of Hemet,” said Tim Burke, a Lead Water Distribution Operator for the City of Hemet. “We’re trying to minimize the effects of the financial crisis and ensure city services remain open.”
In recent negotiations, the SEIU 721 bargaining unit offered a proposal to contribute 4 percent of salaries to help close the budget gap and ensure City leaders avoid cuts to public safety and closures of critical community hubs such as the Hemet Public Library, the Simpson Center and a fire station.
“The Simpson Center is a summertime cooling station for seniors and our library keeps kids learning and reading,” Burke said. “We can’t just close down the city.”
The SEIU 721 contract with Hemet expired June 30, and was extended until Sept. 1. The next bargaining meeting between the SEIU 721 team and Hemet management is scheduled Aug. 17.