Job and Family Services Strike and Contract Disputes

Urged commissioners to support JFS workers by offering livable wages and fair healthcare to maintain the social infrastructure of the county.

Reported that phone lines for Adult Protective Services have been down for over a week, preventing vulnerable citizens from getting help.

A 28-year JFS employee criticized the board for sending hardline negotiators and refusing to offer a genuine contract to striking workers.

Condemned the board for offering a meager one-dollar raise while attempting to claw back sick and personal time after workers served as essential staff through the pandemic.

Highlighted that the JFS strike has reached seven weeks and noted that county medical plan hikes make health insurance unaffordable for workers.

Reiterated that striking JFS workers are standing strong after seven weeks because their base pay is below a living wage.

Argued that commissioners refuse to do low-paying JFS jobs themselves and highlighted how soaring inflation and housing costs outpace wages.