Media Advisory
Contact: Jerry Jimenez, (408) 678-3391
HOLLISTER, Calif. — SEIU 521 members will contest a San Benito County Board of Supervisors resolution tomorrow that falls short of ending extravagant cash-outs and perks for top managers.
The county currently allows its executive managers to walk out the door with $100,000 or more in vacation cash-outs when they leave their jobs.
And while the county seeks to cut public services and lay off workers to help close a deepening budget deficit, top managers still enjoy other costly perks including a county car, a car allowance stipend, and paid mileage.
County workers represented by SEIU Local 521 first raised the elimination of these perks as potential cost-saving solutions during the Board of Supervisors special budget meeting on Feb. 28. SEIU workers also submitted a resolution addressing these issues.
However, the Board of Supervisors will consider a watered-down version of the resolution on Tuesday that does not go far enough to help alleviate budget problems. Instead, it is silent on provisions that would eliminate these costly perks for executive management.
Meanwhile, front line workers have done their share to protect services by offering concessions in the past, including accepting furlough days and freezing salary increases.
“The resolution placed on the board agenda will not end the abuse of perks by county executives that leads to the elimination of public services and creates increased unemployment,” said Martha Booker, SEIU 521 San Benito County Chapter President. “It’s time for the Board of Supervisors to show true leadership and protect the public by holding executive management accountable to our community.”
Details:
San Benito County Board of Supervisors meeting
Tuesday, March 20, 9 a.m.
481 Fourth St., Hollister
Visuals: SEIU 521 members and supporters will call for accountability and urge the board to adopt a resolution that truly addresses the needed cost-savings from ending executive cash-outs and costly perks.
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The Service Employees International Union is an organization of 2.1 million members united by the belief in the dignity and worth of workers and the services they provide. SEIU is dedicated to improving the lives of workers and their families and creating a more just and humane society. For more information, visit www.seiu521.org
