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Dear OCEA Member,
We met with the entire Command Staff on Friday afternoon to discuss the reorganization and layoffs. We once again attempted to persuade the department to reduce the number of layoffs, but we were unsuccessful.
Asst. Sheriff Hillman will be laid off and will receive 3 months’ severance pay (over $60,000.00, pretty good for a guy that has only been here about 17 months {you can buy a lot of chili with that kind of money}). Since the Sheriff is being so generous with her executive managers we thought she might extend the same generosity to the rank and file. We asked that all laid off employees receive 3 months’ severance………..surprise…she denied our request.
Additionally the Sheriff continues to insist on maintaining retiree extra help while laying off regular employees. It is unconscionable during these economic times to lay off a working man or woman while you employ an individual that is receiving a pension and a full salary. We must continue to stand up against this policy.
The number of layoffs will be 29 and there is no commitment to reduce the number further.
We are filing an unfair labor practice with the State of California against the department for its refusal to formally meet and confer with us regarding the impacts of the reorganization. The appeal may take a few months must but we feel compelled to address this injustice. We will keep you informed as more information becomes available.
-----------In Solidarity------Nick Berardino
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