Caregivers urge stronger contract as IHSS negotiations approach; board hears pleas over staffing and unused hours

Hundreds of public commenters used the Board's open‑comment period to press Solano County supervisors to secure a stronger contract for in‑home support services caregivers ahead of upcoming negotiations. Leticia Guerrero, representing IHSS workers, said the county is home to "approximately 6,237 seniors and people with disabilities who receive vital care from approximately 6,725 in‑home support services care providers," and urged supervisors to make the job more sustainable so residents keep access to care.

Several speakers described how low pay and multiple jobs are driving people out of caregiving. Carl Vinson, a former IHSS provider and community advocate, warned the county faces a worsening care crisis: "If the current care crisis isn't addressed, we are going to be moving backwards," he said. Maricela Chavez and Minerva Chavez, both current care providers, described personal struggles balancing caregiving and other work and stressed that better wages would attract and retain providers. One presenter said "a little over 286,000 hours went unused in, 2024," a figure multiple speakers cited as evidence that many eligible residents did not receive care.

Board members acknowledged the concerns and emphasized the bargaining process. Supervisors and staff did not make a decision at the meeting; instead, the comments were entered into the record ahead of the negotiation cycle. The board's staff will continue to work with county negotiators and community representatives as the parties prepare for talks.