This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
This archival content was originally written for and published on KPCC.org. Keep in mind that links and images may no longer work — and references may be outdated.
Riverside County strikes new labor deal with county’s biggest union
Hundreds of Riverside County public employees occupy county headquarters in Riverside during day long strike.
(
Steven Cuevas/KPCC
)
Listen
0:54
Riverside County strikes new labor deal with county’s biggest union
Riverside County strikes new labor deal with county’s biggest union
Thousands of public employees in Riverside County are back on the job, after a one-day walkout — but their differences with the county remain.
On the other hand, county leaders have reached a deal with Riverside’s biggest union.
The Laborers’ International Union of North America represents around 7,000 Riverside County workers. The county says the tentative four-year agreement will save taxpayers $60 million a year.
A Riverside County spokesman says the new contract asks workers to contribute 8 percent of their salaries toward their retirement plans. Board of Supervisors Chairman John Tavaglione says the agreement is an example what happens when both sides have realistic goals that consider the county's budget picture.
It’s not what’s happened with the county’s number two union, Service Employees International. It represents nearly 6,000 nurses, office clerks, social workers and other employees.
They staged a one-day strike Tuesday over a disputed labor contract that would require employees to contribute more to their pensions, while going without a cost of living raise. Both sides are scheduled to resume negotiations in March.
You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
