Today, the County of Sacramento produced a “package proposal” that included their wage increase, longevity, and equities, and what they offered is nothing short of an insult. They have not moved off of their wage proposal (2.7% in year 1 and 2-4% in years 2 and 3), but they have also gutted the list of positions that we proposed were below the medium.
While we work tirelessly to keep the County running (handling operations, supporting critical services, and ensuring that departments meet their missions), this proposal shows just how little our work is valued.
The County demands we must accept proposals on the following:
• Strikes and Lockouts (Section 4.2) The County would like us to give up our right to strike.
• Time Limits (Section 5.3) The County would like to make it easier to get rid of grievances.
• Health and Welfare (Section 10.1) The County would like to make changes to how the contract currently provides medical benefits and who the providers are.
This is an authoritarian tactic, not a negotiation. These mandatory acceptances strip us of our bargaining power and disregard the principles of fair contract negotiations.
We Deserve Better!
This package is not a negotiation; it is a directive. A message that says: “Take what you’re given and be grateful.” But we are not second-class workers. We are professionals. We are essential. And we will not accept a contract that undervalues our contributions and ignores our voices.
We urge you to stand in solidarity. Let the County know that this offer is not good enough and that we are prepared to fight for the contract we deserve, one that respects our labor, supports our families, and closes the unjust wage gaps between units.
You can do this by continuing to wear RED in support of your bargaining team. Let management see you and your support.
