Summer fun with OCEA

Summer is here!

In addition to all you and your family have planned in the sun, we wanted to update you about a couple of exciting summertime developments with your union.

Wage increase
Your July 28, 2017 paycheck will reflect a 2.5 percent negotiated wage increase—the result of OCEA members standing together in our most recent contract negotiations. As you know, the contract included a 4.5% raise that was effective in January 2016, a 2.5% salary increase last summer, and this upcoming raise. Remember, OCEA-represented employees will also receive a $500 holiday bonus this winter, as well.

Free parking at OC parks
As you prepare for summer, don’t forget that OCEA-represented workers also get free access to Orange County Parks year-round.* This is one more benefit negotiated during the last round of bargaining with the County.

Raffle
We are hosting a special “Summer is here raffle” on OCEA’s Facebook page. Please take a moment to enter the raffle by posting your favorite vacation destination to the raffle post on OCEA's Facebook page. Winners will receive a summer fun bag with tickets to one of Southern California’s most popular attractions. Winners will be announced on July 9th, so please enter the drawing soon. If you don’t have a Facebook account, no problem. Just email Joanna Nachurski at joanna@oceamember.org and you are in. Remember, you must be an OCEA member to enter.

OCEA tickets and discounts
OCEA membership includes access to discounted tickets and events, such as water parks, amusement parks and local movie theaters. Click here for the link to summertime specials.

Looking ahead
We are entering the final year of our most recent negotiated contract. That means we will be at the bargaining table before you know it. As we approach bargaining, it’s critical to stay informed about what’s happening in the county by reading OCEA emails, talking to your workplace stewards, and standing together to advocate for issues that matter in your workplace. If you would like to learn more about getting involved, sign up to become a steward or join the OCEA bargaining team click here.

It is our privilege to stand with all of you and to advocate for you and your families each day.

Happy Fourth of July!

Jennifer Beuthin
OCEA General Manager

 

*Free parking at OC parks:

• At regional wilderness parks with a gate arm, show a current and valid County employee badge to the gate attendant for free entry, and park in marked spaces only.
  
•  At regional wilderness and beach parks with pay and display machines (no gate arm), place a current and valid County employee badge face up in a visible location on the vehicle dashboard, and park in marked spaces only.
  
• For law enforcement classifications and others with safety and security concerns, please display a note on your dashboard indicating you are a County employee with free park access. In the event you receive a citation, please contact OCEA, and we will help you resolve the issue.

Publication Date: July 3, 2017