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Caregivers urge Solano supervisors to raise IHSS wages, citing recruitment and county budget impacts
Summary
Dozens of IHSS workers and union representatives told the Solano County Board of Supervisors that current pay and benefits are driving caregivers to other counties, urging the board to pursue larger cost‑of‑living adjustments to stabilize care and unlock state and federal funding.
Dozens of caregivers, union members and allies used the board's public‑comment period on March 3 to urge Solano County supervisors to push for a substantial raise to In‑Home Supportive Services (IHSS) wages.
Minerva Chavez, an in‑home service provider and member of SEIU, said higher wages would preserve in‑home care and draw down state and federal reimbursements. "Every $1 you all choose to contribute to caregiver wages brings 86¢ back to Solano County from state and federal funding resources," Chavez said, adding that a recent county proposal could yield more than $12,000,000 in combined state and federal funding over three years.
Several speakers described the county's recruitment and retention crisis. Sherry Williams, a longtime former IHSS worker, said low wages forced her to leave the county and that members are struggling to afford basic needs. "We are essential workers, and we are tired of this disrespect," she said.
A caller representing IHSS workers, Leticia Guerrero, told the board the county's IHSS rate was $18.10 per hour and noted neighboring Bay Area counties have wages at or above $20 an hour. "Competitive rates in neighboring counties are over $20 an hour," Guerrero said, urging supervisors to return to the bargaining table with a reasonable wage offer.
Speakers also raised non‑pay issues: Kathy Mazingo asked the board to audit IHSS funding allocations over the last decade and requested clarity on where county, state and federal IHSS dollars are deposited. Carl Vinson and others said that modest raises (for example, 50¢) are insufficient given rising housing, energy and transportation costs.
Union and caregiver speakers asked the board to direct the county administrative office and negotiators to prioritize a living‑wage‑oriented contract in upcoming labor talks. The board did not take immediate action during the public comment period; labor negotiations on multiple units were listed later on the agenda. Supervisors acknowledged the testimony and staff noted ongoing labor negotiations and budget planning processes that will inform future decisions.
