OCFA Negotiations Update: April 29, 2022

Dear OCEA member,

Your OCFA Bargaining Team, fellow OCEA members, and OCEA representatives spoke out during public comments at Thursday's JPA Board of Directors meeting against OCFA’s insulting proposal given to us at the bargaining table.

We told them “WE ARE NOT A SERVICE, WE ARE YOUR EMPLOYEES.” We reminded them of the critical work you do for the residents of Orange County, and highlighted the sacrifices you and your families have made while working throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. We also pointed out that while the JPA Board has failed to fairly recognize your work at the bargaining table, they gave Executives a pay increase and a bonus to the Fire Chief.

Your supporters nearly filled the meeting room, and stood in solidarity with the speakers who addressed the Board on your behalf. Our group's presence and message were clear—your work is valuable, both to OCFA and to those who live in O.C., and deserves to be compensated with a fair contract.

While we await OCFA’s response, WHAT YOUR BARGAINING TEAM NEEDS FROM YOU MOST IS YOUR INVOLVEMENT. Please join us in standing #OCEAStrong with your union brothers and sisters by staying informed, getting involved, and becoming a workplace steward.

Ways to Stay Informed:

• Text “OCFIRE” to 43506 to sign up for time-sensitive communication.
• If your co-workers mention not receiving OCEA emails, direct them to ocea.org to opt-in for emails or update their email preferences.

 Get Involved:

• Make sure you have a steward in your section!
• Contact us at ocea.org/getinvolved or speak to a current steward to get more involved.

We will keep you informed of updates as we continue to fight for a fair contract.

In Solidarity,

Sami Soto, Fire Communications Supervisor
John Bowden, Assistant Fire Marshal
Don Friedline, Fleet Services Supervisor
Eric Monroe, Heavy Equipment Operator II
Rich Swanson, Fire Prevention Analyst
Aaron Peardon, OCEA Senior Labor Relations Representative
Kate Wolf, OCEA Labor Relations Representative
Don Drozd, OCEA General Counsel
Charles Barfield, OCEA General Manager

 

 

Publication Date: April 29, 2022