711 Candidate Statements

Vote Now! – BU 711 Ballot

711 Social Workers Candidate Statements:

DINISHA ARKADIE

I want to assist in continuing to represent our members in our fight for fairiness and equity. Upholding our contracts and including new ideas.

LUZ BENNER

I believe I should be nominated at a barganing unit representative as in the past I have lead a group of 17 GAIN workers to assist in the reclassification to social workers which the County had to pay thousands of dollars in back paid to 40 employees.

I have the determination to fight for County employees right to a just compensation and benefits. We need to stand together to ensure staff receives the support needed to survive and thrive on this new economy.

NADYA CHAVEZ

Rachel is a great representation of our community health worker unit (parents in partnership) and is selfless when it comes to our needs.

CURTIS DAVIS

MY GOAL IS TO ENSURE THAT WHATEVER THE MOU COVERS, THAT THE COUNTY STICKS TO IT AND NOT CHANGE IT TO SUIT THEIR NEEDS. ALSO, I WOULD LIKE TO HAVE GAIN SERVICES WORKERS BE ON PAR WITH DCFS WORKERS IN TERMS OF SALARY. I GOAL IS TO GET GROW BACK TO GROW INSTEAD OF START (WHICH DOESN’T MAKE ANY SENSE). WE HAVE PROVEN BEYOND A SHADOW OF DOUBTS THAT WHEN GROW IS GIVEN THE OPPORTUNITY TO EXCELL, WE DO. THIS WILL BE MY FIRST EVER TIME ON THE BARGAINING TEAM.

ANDREA DAWSON

No Statement Submitted

DOUGLAS EMERT

I believe it’s in the best interest of all employees to be represented by a strong union. I believe that together we should fight for a fair contract. I’m one of the employees that my co-workers ask me about what’s going on with the union. I’m extremely pro-active when seeking out information when it comes to various contract issues. I believe I would make a strong addition to the bargaining team.

JAMES GREEN JR.

I am looking to change things for ourselves as County workers. I want to be a part in bringing positive changes in terms of benefits and developing a better stronger contract that treats workers with greater respect and fairness particularly in dealing with Management. I am the sort of person who will seek what is best for us all as County workers. I believe in workers first and foremost.

VERONICA JOHNSON

I have been a steward for over 20 years. Ive sat on the Regional Council, Regional Appeals Committee, and LA County Social Worker chapter. I negotiated the last 3 contracts. I would appreciate your vote again. WHEN WE FIGHTWE WIN!!!

CHRISTOPHER JOHNSON

I currently serve as a shop steward for GAIN Region 1 and sit on the GAIN/START Caseload Committee. I am fully committed to seeing that we get what we deserve and that this contract is our best one yet.

SILVA KECHICHIAN

Silva Kechichian, I am currently running to serve as a negotiator for SEIU Local 721, Bargaining Unit 711 and I am committed to make changes.
I am currently work for LA County as a Social Worker for over 19+ years. As a member of SEIU Local 721, I served as an elected Negotiator for the Bargaining 711 unit and a Shop Steward as DPSS-IHSS. I am committed to serving the needs of my fellow coworkers and members and continue represent each one of you, in solidarity.

RHONDA LAYTON

As an employee of LADMH for over 17 years, I have experience some of the policies that have been unfair to the workers. I am willing to fight for the charges in policies that will promote fairness for all and whole individuals accountable for any unfair practices. We must insure that all disciplines are review by union members ( e.i., decline promotions) and given more time to respond to ensure equity.

VINCENT MCCORMACK

I have represented APS for negotiations and reopening of the MOU since 2001. I am a shop steward and chairperson of the caseload Committee and Joint Labor Management Committee. I have been instrumental in getting many of our proposals in the MOU. I have the experience to represent you at the table. I know how to work with management and labor.

STEVEN MEDELLIN

I am nominating Steven for the bargaining team because of his extensive experience being a Community Health Worker. He has exceptional communication skills. Steven’s ability to analyze complex issues and develop effective solutions, coupled with his proven leadership and respect among peers, makes him an ideal candidate to represent us and drive successful negotiations. His commitment to fairness and integrity ensures he is a great asset to the bargaining team.

JOSE MELENDEZ

Jose Melendez is the candidate I nominate he advocates for the worker

ERICK OSORNO

I would like to be considered as a member of bargaining team. I feel my experience in all facets of public assistance workings and ability to seek solution to diverse issues can be an asset to the team.

I thank you for considering my request and look forward to hearing from the bargaining team to explore how I can help in the process.

MARGARITA PADILLA

No Statement Submitted

XAVIER PUENTE

Looking forward in advocating for my fellow workers who always care and strive for the best strategies for their participants. The barrier is usually management that is constantly changing services where in line staff is not usually a part of the conversation or process.

EDWARD ROMAN

Experience Bargaining Unit 731, Social Services Investigators & B.U. 711, Social Workers:
Past Chair of Social Workers & Community Workers Stewards Council; Member of L.A. Chapter Social Workers Committee; Member of Local 721 Stewards Council.

Developed Computerized Grievance Tracking System.
Authored “”Free, Safe, and Adequate Parking”” (B.U. #731) Language—now appearing as Common Language in Local 721 L..A. County Labor Contracts.
Proven Worker Advocacy Record

ANNA STEWART

No Statement Submitted

CHERYL TAYLOR

I am willing to work with you to help us get the best possible contract.

PATRICIA UCH

Patty is a dedicated advicate for her team members as well as the client she serves. She has forged a path forward for the PIPs across the county to be more involved in our union activities.