NBEL Negotiations Update: April 14, 2025

Dear League member,

We held our first negotiations meeting with the City Monday, April 7, to begin discussions for our next contract. Representing you at the table were NBEL Board members Dan Napier, Shane Webber, Nathaniel Beckett, and staff from OCEA. The City’s team included Lead Negotiator Luke Jensen, Assistant City Manager Tara Finnigan, HR Director Barbara Salvini, HR Manager Sara Rodriguez, and Finance Director Jason Al-Imam.

The meeting began with a financial presentation from the City. Generally speaking, the outlook for the City’s General Fund over the next several years is positive. Revenues—driven by Property Tax, Sales Tax, and Transient Occupancy Tax (Hotel Tax)—are expected to rise steadily, while expenditures remain stable. The City also shared a long-term plan (targeting 2033) to pay down its CalPERS pension liability. While ambitious, this strategy would ultimately benefit both the City and NBEL members.

No proposals were exchanged at this meeting. Our team is finalizing our opening proposal, which we plan to present at our next meeting April 15, 2025.

Thank you to all members who took our recent negotiations survey. We had 45 members participate, and your input has invaluably shaped our approach at the table.

When asked to rank a number of items, these were the top five priorities:

• Higher Wages
• Improvements to Health Insurance
• Increased Flex Leave
• Longevity Pay
• Stand-By Duty Improvements

Additional noteworthy topics identified in the survey include the implementation of 4/10 work schedules, compensation for both new and existing certifications, and longevity pay. One of the most encouraging takeaways from the survey is how many of you want to get more involved. Whether it's researching proposals, keeping co-workers informed, or attending City Council meetings, your engagement makes a difference and strengthens our collective voice.

Thank you for your continued support and solidarity. We’ll keep you updated every step of the way.

In Solidarity,

Your NBEL Negotiations Team

Publication Date: April 14, 2025