Human Assistance workers demand fair contracts and safety measures amid ongoing negotiations

Sacramento County's Board of Supervisors meeting on April 22, 2025, highlighted urgent concerns from county employees regarding contract negotiations and workplace safety. The meeting featured passionate testimonies from various workers, particularly those in human services and healthcare, who expressed frustration over stalled contract discussions and inadequate compensation.

A key focus was the ongoing negotiations for a new contract for county employees, which have been in limbo since December 2024. Workers voiced their dissatisfaction with the county's bargaining team, citing a lack of accountability and responsiveness. One employee, a long-time member of the Department of Human Assistance, criticized the county's negotiator for being "unaccountably unavailable," referencing a recent illness that delayed discussions. This sentiment was echoed by others who emphasized the need for fair compensation that reflects the rising cost of living and the demanding nature of their work.

Several speakers highlighted the dangers faced by social workers and healthcare staff. Incidents of violence against employees were recounted, including severe assaults that left workers injured. A representative from Child Protective Services called for a 15% incentive for social workers, arguing that their roles are fraught with risk and deserve recognition. The call for better safety measures and adequate staffing was a recurring theme, with multiple employees sharing personal experiences of workplace violence and the emotional toll it takes on them.

In addition to compensation and safety, the meeting also touched on broader issues such as the county's financial management and the need for transparency regarding salary increases for supervisors. Employees expressed frustration over perceived inequities in pay raises, particularly in light of a previous grand jury finding that criticized the board for approving excessive salary increases for themselves while failing to negotiate fair raises for frontline workers.

As the meeting concluded, employees urged the Board of Supervisors to prioritize their needs and return to the negotiation table with a commitment to fair and equitable contracts. The discussions underscored the critical role that county workers play in serving vulnerable populations and the urgent need for the county to address their concerns to ensure a safe and supportive work environment. The outcome of these negotiations will be pivotal in shaping the future of county services and the well-being of its employees.