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County workers urge supervisors to halt steep health‑care premium increases
Summary
SEIU‑represented county employees described medical expenses and warned that an employer‑proposed ~30% premium hike would worsen vacancies and turnover, asking supervisors to protect affordable coverage for public‑service staff.
Several Fresno County employees and union representatives addressed the Board of Supervisors during public presentations to urge the board to prevent large increases in employee health‑care costs.
Deborah Young, identified as a social worker with the Department of Children and Family Services, told the board she has spent 25 years in county service and described out‑of‑pocket costs after a medical emergency. "Those expenses add up quickly," she said, and asked supervisors to keep health care affordable to retain experienced staff.
Brandon Einwalter, an eligibility worker and union shop steward, said he relied on county‑sponsored coverage while undergoing cancer treatment and warned that a potential increase in premiums and cost sharing could drive experienced employees from the county workforce. Patricia Ochoa, a licensed vocational nurse, said a proposed 30% increase would force her to take a second job and undermine retention.
Union speakers said staffing shortages and turnover already strain county services and that large premium increases would harm recruitment and service continuity. The board did not take immediate action at the meeting; staff and supervisors acknowledged the concern and said the issue will be considered in upcoming budget and benefits discussions.
What’s next: County management and the board will continue budget and benefits deliberations in future sessions; employees asked the board to prioritize retention by limiting premium increases and exploring alternatives to shift burden away from front‑line staff.
