On November 18, 2024, SEIU Local 721 President David Green met with Los Angeles County Department of Child Support Services (CSSD) Director Terrie Hardy and members of her executive council to discuss pressing issues impacting both line staff and management. Representing SEIU Local 721 were Worksite Organizer Brayan Ochoa and CSSD Stewards Shahidah Carter, Victor Trammel and Leo Barrera. This pivotal meeting marked a significant step toward improving communication and collaboration between our Union and management.
Key Topics Discussed
Quarterly Union-Management Meetings
Union leadership and the CSSD executive team agreed to meet to discuss topics of mutual concern. These meetings will provide an opportunity for both parties to address concerns of our Union members and the overall success of the CSSD. By coming together to discuss mutual topics of interest, Union leadership and the CSSD executive team can find common ground and solutions that benefit everyone. These meetings demonstrate a commitment to open dialogue, transparency and the shared goal of working together to achieve success for the organization.
Tableau Application and Artificial Intelligence
The use of the Tableau application in CSSD operations was clarified by Director Hardy, who confirmed it is not an Artificial Intelligence tool. She further noted that the State of California currently prohibits the use of Artificial Intelligence in Child Support operations. This clarification helped address misconceptions and opened the door for continued discussions on technology’s role in the Department’s future.
Workplace Bullying and Harassment
Behaviors leading to perceptions of bullying and harassment within the Department were a focal point. SEIU Local 721 highlighted concerns that unprofessional behavior by some supervisors and managers persists in violation of CSSD Policy 7 00 00. The Union argued that such behaviors, if unchecked, contribute to a demoralized workforce and diminish trust in both management and Union leadership. Director Hardy emphasized the Department’s commitment to addressing misconduct through established disciplinary protocols. SEIU Local 721 stressed the need for swift and transparent action to restore staff morale and confidence.
Promotional Practices
Concerns about fairness in the application process for promotional opportunities were raised. SEIU Local 721 pointed to supplemental questions that appear to favor certain employees over others. Director Hardy acknowledged these concerns and committed to reviewing the supplemental questions to ensure equity and transparency in promotional processes.
CSSD Funding and Political Challenges
Steward Victor Trammel underscored the highly politicized nature of CSSD’s funding structure and the potential challenges the Department could face under the upcoming Trump Administration. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between management and the Union to proactively address any political obstacles that might arise.
Outcomes and Next Steps
The meeting concluded on a productive note, with both sides expressing a shared commitment to improving workplace conditions and fostering better communication. SEIU Local 721 representatives reiterated their dedication to advocating for line staff and working collaboratively with management to address systemic issues.
Director Hardy’s willingness to consider quarterly meetings and review key concerns signals a positive step forward for CSSD. These discussions mark the beginning of what both parties hope will be a more transparent and cooperative relationship moving forward.
For more information, please contact SEIU Local 721 at:
- SEIU Local 721 Member Connection: (877) 721-4968
- SEIU Local 721 Union Rep, Shoushan Baghboudarian: (213) 494-6760
- CSSD Chief Steward, Leo Barrera: CSSD Headquarters