As many of you are aware, our salary contract, which was extended behind the financial uncertainties of the Covid-19 pandemic and Measure J, expired on March 31, 2022.
Our bargaining unit (621) is scheduled to meet with County representatives on April 20, 2022. Barring any cancellations, these negotiations will take place every Wednesday, except on the Wednesdays already reserved for the monthly PPOA Board of Directors meeting.
These negotiations are expected to be challenging -- more so than previous years -- as they come during political infighting and the backdrop of what percentage, if any, of the county budget should be allocated for law enforcement.
However, with the resurgence in crime and the seeming lack of prosecution for those crimes, public safety, the surrounding counties and elected officials are again prominently in the spotlight.
The 621 negotiating team along with the PPOA Executive Director, Senior Labor Representative as well as PPOA legal counsel for consultation, will exercise due diligence in an effort to secure an equitable agreement for our members.
The 2022 team includes:
- Angel Becerra, Security Officer
- Jim Blankenship, LET
- Tony Coleman, Custody Assistant/621 Negotiations Chair
- Ben Garcia, Civilian Investigator
- Gerry Garcia, Security Officer
- Cynthia Murphy, Custody Assistant
- Jesus Peralta, Court Services Specialist
- Wayne Quint, Jr. PPOA Executive Director
- Mike Salazar, Public Response Dispatcher
- Joe Walker, Crime Analyst
- Venise Wallace, Senior Labor Representative
As customary, once these negotiations begin, both sides will enter into a non-disclosure agreement. The bargaining team members will be restricted in what they can actually discuss publicly.
Your patience and professionalism during this time is requested, as this will likely be a lengthy and tedious process.
Respectfully,
Tony Coleman
621 Negotiations
2nd Vice President, PPOA
Custody Assistant Representative
