Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Labor topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
SEIU members press board over furloughs, civil‑service and contract delays
Summary
Multiple SEIU 1021 members testified about bargaining disputes, furlough days, the district's attempts to remove civil‑service protections, and alleged bad‑faith bargaining; the superintendent responded that the district is willing to negotiate and seeks fairness across unions.
Representatives and members of SEIU Local 1021 addressed the board about stalled contract talks, furlough days and a proposed reduction in civil‑service protections for classified employees. Karen Bishop, president of the local chapter, said the district relies on "as‑needed" workers who receive no benefits and urged the board to retain civil‑service protections and expedite a contract.
SEIU field staff and speakers described a history of bargaining contention, alleged district refusal to bargain furlough scheduling in good faith, and charges filed with the Public Employment Relations Board. "This is the school district, at work," one SEIU speaker said, accusing district negotiators of tactics they characterize as union‑busting. Several classified staff described low wages, loss of benefits and the disproportionate effect on working mothers.
Superintendent Garcia thanked the workers and said the district values employees, defended past steps (including an earlier exemption from layoffs for SEIU) and said staff is prepared to negotiate. He asked that any specific allegations of discriminatory remarks be brought to his attention so they can be addressed.
The board did not take an immediate formal action on bargaining matters at the meeting; many SEIU members asked the board to oppose removal from civil service and to help secure a contract rather than targeting classified staff with benefit reductions.
