Glenn DSA Settles New Contract

Tuesday, December 18, 2007

Glenn County DSA approves a new 21 month contract that grants significant pay and benefit increases.

Glenn County DSA members voted to ratify the new MOU that was recommended by DSA President Shawn Williams and the DSA bargaining team assisted by UPEC Negotiator Steve Allen.

In summary, the new contract provides for a 10% pay increase (5% 1-1-08, 3% 1-1-09 , 2% 7-1-09), implementation of longevity pay (5% for 12 years County service and 1% more at 20 years County service beginning 7-1-08), a compromise formula on medical insurance (County to pick up 90% of employee only Blue Shield HMO and add the same dollar increase to dependent premium pick up which results in dependent premium pick up in the 80% range), a new “cash in lieu” program where employees opting out of medical insurance receive a cash increase, and an increase in shift differential of $.75 per hour.

The settlement keeps the DSA on track toward its goal to catch up to comparable agencies.  “It does not get us there yet but it is a step in the right direction,” according to Allen.  Allen also stated that the County voiced its concern about media reports describing the state budget deficit but that despite that concern the County’s negotiating committee made a sincere effort to meet the DSA’s demands.  “This went as smooth as I have seen bargaining go in Glenn County,” stated Allen.  “We look forward to continuing to build a positive labor relations relationship with the Board of Supervisors and the CAO’s Office.”

The new labor contract runs from January 1, 2008 through September 30, 2009.