Visalia, CA- After patiently waiting more than three hours for the Board of Supervisors to open Tuesday's meeting for public comment, a delegation of Tulare County workers presented a petition with more than 1,400 signatures that calls for the County to provide a fair contract to include competitive wages, affordable health care and improved working conditions.

With the current contract between the County and its workers expiring on June 30, 2008, negotiations are underway between management and the worker-elected Bargaining Team. The County's initial economic proposal to the workers offered 0% in wage increases and an additional $25 per month for health care costs.

"We deserve a fair contract, and offering us 0% is unacceptable," said Steve Browning, a Self Sufficiency Support Assistant II at the Visalia Processing Center, who presented the petition to the Board of Supervisors.

Tulare County employee wages are some of the lowest in the Central Valley, making it difficult to attract and retain employees. While county employees fall farther behind, the Board of Supervisors implemented a new system of compensating executive management. The new system replaced a 5-step system with broad salary bands that include higher maximum salary ranges and allows wage increases of up to 10% each year.

"It is time the Board recognizes that our union is stronger than ever. Presenting the unity petition validates the presence and voice of our membership, and we think this is one of many steps in getting a contract that benefits everyone," noted Browning after presenting the petition.