Camden County workers demand fair contracts amid staffing crisis and potential litigation

Camden County's Board of Commissioners meeting on December 12, 2024, highlighted urgent concerns from local union representatives regarding employee compensation and retention in the face of a staffing crisis. Union leaders, including Steven Johnson, president of the Camden County Social Services union, presented a compelling case for fair contract negotiations, emphasizing the need for improved pay structures to retain essential workers.

Johnson noted that Camden County's 911 call centers have lost over 65 employees in the past two years alone, primarily due to competitive salaries offered by neighboring departments. He pointed out that the current pay structure does not comply with the Equal Pay Act, which has prompted the union to seek a return to a step pay system. This change is estimated to cost the county approximately $1.2 million but is deemed necessary to ensure fair compensation for workers who are critical to public safety.

The union's representatives expressed frustration over the lack of progress in negotiations, stating that previous attempts to address these issues have been ignored. They warned that without a resolution, they may be forced to pursue litigation, which could cost taxpayers between $15 million to $18 million. Johnson emphasized that the union is not asking for unreasonable raises but rather for adjustments that reflect the rising costs of living and insurance premiums.

In addition to the pay discussions, the meeting also featured solidarity messages from other unions, highlighting a broader movement for fair labor practices across New Jersey. The union representatives underscored the importance of investing in the workforce that keeps Camden County safe and operational, urging the Board to consider the long-term implications of their decisions.

As the meeting concluded, the union leaders reiterated their commitment to finding a collaborative solution, hoping to avoid the costly path of litigation while advocating for the rights and needs of Camden County workers. The outcome of these negotiations will be crucial not only for the employees but also for the community they serve.