Intercon security officers and SEIU ask Multnomah County to fund higher wages and benefits for subcontracted workers

Several subcontracted security officers and a representative of SEIU Local 49 urged the Multnomah County Board of Commissioners during public comment to add funding to the Intercon security contract to ensure living wages and affordable benefits.

Yasmin Ybarra, political director for SEIU Local 49, told the board her union represents more than 14,000 essential workers, including janitors and newly organized Intercon security officers who are bargaining their first contract. Ybarra said union contractors provide higher retention and more consistent services and asked the county to include sufficient funding in the proposed budget to support wage and benefit improvements for Intercon officers.

Intercon officer Nora Gorby testified that she earns $24.25 an hour, but after premiums and deductions she cannot save and pays about $400 a month for health insurance premiums and large out‑of‑pocket costs; she said some coworkers cannot afford health plans and avoid care. Gorby said nonunion contractors historically offered less affordable care and fewer benefits.

A colleague, Aiden Gerd, described minimal paid time off (40 hours per year, combined with sick time) and on‑the‑job safety risks, including assaults and threats. Gerd said the officers perform demanding work and asked the commission to add sufficient funds to the Intercon contract to provide better wages, benefits and paid time off.

The board did not take an immediate vote on contracting policy at the hearing; commissioners acknowledged testimony and the public record. SEIU’s request was for county budget staff to consider additional appropriation in the upcoming budget to support higher wages and affordable plans offered through the Intercon contract.