Will Attend Budget Hearings Today to Maintain Services, Avoid Layoffs
VISUALS: Scores of workers wearing purple shirts, holding placards

SALINAS, CA – After reaching a tentative contract agreement with the county last week, Monterey County workers will attend budget hearings today and tomorrow to build a partnership that will help maintain services and avoid layoffs.

The tentative agreement reached last week will extend the contract for one year with no changes to benefits, wages or workers' rights.

"This is great news," said Ben Franklin, Monterey County chapter president of Local 521. "Eighty-five percent of members surveyed said they wanted a contract extension. This allows us to continue to provide quality services during a tough economic time."

Members will vote to ratify the contract Monday, June 15.

Despite below-average wages, workers are tabling any improvements in order to work with the county to keep services running.

Scores of workers will attend the county budget hearings today and tomorrow to work with the board on finding solutions that will maintain services while avoiding layoffs.