Court Budget Update - August 31, 2020

Dear OCEA member, 

As you know, the Orange County Superior Court is facing challenges as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact on the Court budget. As part of this impact, Court Management has informed frontline workers of their intention to implement mandatory furloughs. On Thursday, August 27th, OCEA workplace leaders Kim Manton, Rick Burns, Shanon Sipilovic, Robert Hendricks, and Maria Ruiz joined OCEA staff to address this decision.

At our meeting, the Court reiterated its intention to implement a rigid, one-size-fits-all approach that does not take into account the unique situation of each worker and their family. When workers were recently surveyed, 30% of respondents reported needing scheduling flexibility. Many of the needed accommodations are related to child care or other COVID-19-related impacts. Despite public claims of caring for workers, the Court was uninterested in any approach that was flexible, voluntary, or employee friendly.

OCEA representatives presented a series of suggestions and counter proposals. Some OCEA members have reported wanting to take a voluntary furlough. Others have expressed interest in incentivized separation or other employee-friendly options. Court representatives were not interested in these proposals. They want to be able to determine who, when, and how the furloughs are implemented. Finally, when pressed, the Court would not commit to whether or not this furlough would apply to managers and executives. So much for “we are in this together.”

It was a disappointing meeting. Your co-workers were prepared to work collaboratively with management to find solutions that don’t harm workers and their families. The Court simply saw this meeting as a necessary box to check in order to move on to their predetermined conclusion. To be clear, when you see an email from the CEO saying you are valued, check your wallet.

The bargaining team will resume negotiations with Court management next week.

In Solidarity, 

Charles Barfield
OCEA General Manager

Publication Date: August 31, 2020