As a Members of AFSCME Local 88, We are deeply concerned about the County's failure to honor the Collective Bargaining Agreement and pay County workers their retention bonus on July 1st as per the language we negotiated in our current contract. We intend to hold the County accountable for its contractual obligation and ensure that hardworking employees receive what they rightfully deserve prior to July 31st as the County claims they plan on delivering. 

Our Collective Bargaining Agreement states: 

Article 14 - Compensation, ...Additionally, on July 1, 2023, regular status and limited duration employees covered by this agreement, will receive a one-time payment of 1% of base wages, but no less than $2,000, prorated by FTE (as of July 1, 2023). This one-time payment is to address current job market conditions and employee retention.

This petition aims to address and inform the County of our expectation that hardworking employees receive their well-deserved bonus, without a one-month delay as the County states.

Many of us have made financial plans based on the expected retention bonus. However, the sudden postponement of this payment not only violates our contract but also puts us at risk of falling behind on essential payments, including mortgages, rent, car loans, childcare expenses, and other crucial financial obligations. 

We find this situation unacceptable. The collective bargaining agreement between AFSCME Local 88 and the County was established through a fair negotiation process, where we believe both parties reached an agreement in good faith. Seven months later, it is disheartening to learn that the County intends to postpone our bonus, leaving us dedicated employees feeling undervalued, unappreciated, betrayed, frustrated, let down and many in financial distress. 

To shed light on this issue, let's consider some relevant facts:

1. The retention bonus was included in our negotiated contract as a way to acknowledge our loyalty and dedication to serving the community.
2. By postponing this payment, the County is not only failing to fulfill its promise but also contributing to the decline of employee morale.
3. Many workers are depending on the timeliness of this bonus for important expenses that directly contribute to local businesses and support our economy.
4. Failure to provide these bonuses may lead to increased turnover rates among county workers, as they already feel undervalued.
5. Honoring the Collective Bargaining Agreement will help foster trust between employees and management, and contribute to maintaining a positive work environment.

It is crucial for us, as Members of AFSCME Local 88, to unite and demand that the County fulfills its contractual obligation by paying our Members their retention bonus without further delay. Let us remind the County that agreements made must be upheld, and that the financial stability and well-being of its employees must be a top priority.

By signing this petition, we are advocating for fairness, justice, and the rights of hardworking individuals who deserve to receive what we have rightfully earned, without further delay. Together, we can ensure that our voices are heard and that the County upholds its contractual obligation to us.

Thank you for your support in this extreme matter of importance.