Sacramento County employees demand fair contract amidst stalled negotiations

Tensions are rising in Sacramento County as contract negotiations between the United Public Employees (UPE) and county officials reach a critical impasse. Union representatives voiced their frustrations during a recent Board of Supervisors meeting, highlighting a stark disconnect between the county's treatment of its frontline workers and its management.

Beth, a UPE business agent and co-chief negotiator, opened the discussion by revealing that negotiations have been ongoing since December 2024, with no agreement in sight. She criticized the county for prioritizing executive management roles over essential frontline workers, stating, "The county is not valuing its employees... the ones that run the county sufficiently." Her comments were underscored by the recent approval of $25,000 in relocation expenses for management positions, which she argued starkly contrasts with the lack of support for workers who provide critical services to the community.

James Starr, a long-time county employee, echoed these sentiments, expressing disappointment over perceived inequities in pay and working conditions. "Our members have watched as you voted yourselves big pay raises while our working conditions got worse," he said, emphasizing a growing sense of disrespect among workers.

Tezra Sledge, another UPE representative, challenged the county's approach to negotiations, questioning the rationale behind a "philosophical" basis for contract discussions rather than focusing on concrete budgetary needs. "Please stop wasting our time at the bargaining table," she urged, calling for a more straightforward negotiation process.

The emotional weight of the negotiations was further highlighted by Stephanie McCall, a human services specialist, who shared her personal struggles as a county employee. She described the financial hardships she faces as a newly single mother, emphasizing the need for fair compensation. "My prayers now focus on hoping that my son and I don't become food insecure," she lamented, criticizing the county's proposal of a mere $5 per paycheck towards a health savings plan as inadequate.

As the meeting progressed, Eric Booker, a social worker, pointed out that the county's negotiation tactics reflect a broader philosophy of exploitation rather than partnership. "This is a philosophy of exploitation, and it's a reflection of you all here," he stated, calling for a reevaluation of how employees are treated.

The meeting concluded with Ted Samara, executive director of UPE, thanking union members for taking time off work to advocate for their rights. He reiterated the urgent need for the county to address the concerns of its employees, who feel undervalued and overburdened.

With negotiations stalled and emotions running high, the future of labor relations in Sacramento County hangs in the balance, as workers demand recognition and fair treatment for the essential services they provide.