Yesterday, our Union met with Dr. Jackie Contreras, the new Acting Director of the LA County Department of Public Social Services. We’re hoping that new DPSS leadership will signify a new day for all of us.
One of our first questions to Dr. Contreras was, “Are you going to honor our contract?” Without hesitation, she responded, “Yes.”
We’re off to a positive start. Previous leaders at DPSS sometimes threw us an arrogant attitude. Not so today. Dr. Contreras and DPSS HR Director Derrick Robinson were cordial and respectful to all at our Wilshire headquarters.
Representatives from our union included Arlene Andrade, an Eligibility Supervisor at DPSS San Gabriel Valley Family Center II; Yolanda Floyd, an Eligibility Worker II at DPSS South Central AP District Office; David Green, the President of SEIU 721; Melinda Harrison, an Eligibility Supervisor at DPSS Compton AP District Office; Adolfo Granados, the Treasurer of SEIU 721; and Ruby Dye, an SEIU 721 Executive Board Member and an Eligibility Supervisor at DPSS Compton AP District Office.
We made sure to express the concerns of our DPSS members – that unnecessary micromanagement was rampant and killing morale. Most importantly, we respectfully but firmly insisted management adhere to standards agreed upon in our existing contract.
As we turn over a new leaf at DPSS, we’re confident that we can establish a positive partnership between our union and Dr. Contreras. As always, we’ll keep everyone updated as new developments unfold.
Together, we win!