On June 24, your 005 bargaining team met with the County for our last negotiation session. We declared impasse, as the County came back with nothing. We provided our final proposal packet far in advance of this meeting to ensure they have plenty of time to come back with a response. Nothing. There is no offer of a livable wage for all of our people. They’re trying to offer only 2.8% in year 1. We want more for everyone. There was no movement whatsoever, and they reiterated that there would be no agreement unless we dropped our rights to strike and agreed to their language for healthcare plans. They want the ability to change your healthcare plan at any time, which could change your costs and lower your coverage. The County hasn’t been negotiating with us. It’s been one-sided, and our voices have been long gone unheard. We’re tired of disrespect. We see no reason to go to mediation when it is already clear they don’t care to provide a livable wage.
