HomeMy WebLinkAbout2011-05-25 Business Meeting MinutesTES
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Deschutes County Board of Commissioners
1300 NW Wall St., Bend, OR 97701-1960
(541) 388-6570 - Fax (541) 385-3202 - www.desehutes.org
MINUTES OF BUSINESS MEETING
DESCHUTES COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
WEDNESDAY, MAY 25, 2011
Commissioners' Hearing Room - Administration Building - 1300 NW Wall St., Bend
Present were Commissioners Anthony DeBone and Alan Unger, and by conference
call, Tammy Baney, participating only for item #3 of the agenda. Also present
were Dave Kanner, County Administrator, Erik Kropp, Deputy County
Administrator; Steve Bell and Laurie Craghead, County Counsel; Tom Blust and
George Kolb, Road Department; and approximately a dozen citizens.
Vice Chair DeBone opened the meeting at 10:05 a.m.
1. Before the Board was Citizen Input.
William Kuhn said that he is dealing with a cheat grass issue, and unfortunately
has to do it alone again this year. There is no homeowners' agreement and the
other party does not participate in any of the maintenance of the property.
He said he has asked previously about the history of the conditional use permit
being investigated, and is asking that again. He wants a demand letter sent to
the other party. He thinks the other party may ask for a conditional use permit,
so he suggests that any declaratory ruling request that does not contain the
signature of Mr. Kuhn and his wife be rejected as being incomplete. There must
be an agreement between the two parties. If the request relates to any of the
parcels, he wants his and his wife's names on the request until there is an
agreement in place.
Commissioner Unger stated that he would prefer Mr. Kuhn's statement and
request be made in writing so it is clear what is desired.
Minutes of Board of Commissioners' Business Meeting Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Page 1 of 8 Pages
Fawn Miller of Redmond spoke as a citizen and an AFSCME member. She
read a letter into the record. She also has others to submit. She expressed
concern about there being no COLA for herself and for other employees.
She stated she was happy to work on negotiations about the upcoming
agreement and saw it as a positive opportunity, but feels management has
shown no desire to bargain in good faith.
Geri Hauser spoke as a citizen, taxpayer, voter and member of AFSCME. She
read a letter to the Board and audience. She is frustrated because good
employees have left the County when there could have been a better outcome.
She objects to the current system of employee evaluations which gives the
employee little opportunity to grieve an evaluation. COLA raises are important
to her because the cost of everything has gone up. She has never had a negative
evaluation, but there is a certain situation that comes up every year. The
proposed contract makes it even worse.
Dave Kanner said that there is a bargaining team and the group should not try to
go around the work of the bargaining team and discuss these issues now.
Commissioner DeBone and Unger stated that they value the input and would
listen to what is being said. Commissioner Unger said he is sensitive to what
Mr. Kanner stated so input should be only that which is outside of what appears
to be bargaining issues.
Melinda Campbell said that she is not sure all the concerns are being addressed
during the bargaining process. The newspaper reports that the budget assumes
there will be no wage increases so it appears that this has already been decided.
Mr. Kanner said that AFSCME has not made any wage proposals up to this
time. The bargaining needs to happen at the bargaining table, and not before
the Board of Commissioners.
Erik Kropp said that AFSCME asked for a delay to wait for more information
on the budget, but will be meeting again soon with the bargaining team.
Commissioner Unger stated that the Board is not part of the process until the
entire team comes up with an agreement for the Board to consider.
Minutes of Board of Commissioners' Business Meeting Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Page 2 of 8 Pages
Ms. Miller stated that certain things were requested from the County so
AFSCME could actually work on the wage and benefits portion. That
information just came in this week and this is why the talks were delayed.
Robin Pelham said she is an advocate for DD children. The work is rewarding
but the pay is not that high. Her daughter has medical issues and she pays over
$300 a month out of pocket beyond the benefits offered by the County. She is
not sure how she can handle a cut in pay and an increase in medical costs. She
presented letters as well.
Commissioner DeBone thanked the group for their time.
Taffy Gleason of the Bend Community Center presented a plaque to the Board,
thanking the County for its support of the Bend Community Center's kitchen
project and the clothes baling operation.
2. Before the Board was a Public Hearing and Consideration of Signature of
Order No. 2011-012, Approving the Baker -Donohue Annexation into
Deschutes County Rural Fire Protection District #2.
Vice Chair DeBone opened the hearing.
Laurie Craghead gave an overview of the item. She said all agencies involved
have found this annexation acceptable, and proper notices were given. The
petition cannot be submitted to the County until the Fire Protection District has
indicated the property can be served. Community Development states that
Code encourages this type of action.
Tom Fay, Manager of Rural Fire Protection District #2, said that the District
boundaries go beyond this property and they, along with Bend Fire Department,
are able to serve it.
Being no further testimony, the hearing was closed.
UNGER: Move signature of Order No. 2011-012.
DEBONE: Second.
VOTE: UNGER: Yes.
DEBONE: Vice Chair votes yes.
Minutes of Board of Commissioners' Business Meeting Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Page 3 of 8 Pages
3. Before the Board was Consideration of Signature of Document No. 2011-
273, a Memorandum of Understanding between Deschutes County and the
International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 701, regarding a Union
Agreement - MOU with IUOE Local 701.
Erik Kropp gave a brief overview of the item. The agreement would be
extended for one year beginning June 30, 2011. The bargaining team met with
union representatives and agreed that there will be no COLA increase and the
cap of $95 for the health premium would remain, although the current rate is
$50 and will likely be raised to $65.
The Commissioners thanked those involved for their cooperation and hard work.
BANEY: Move approval.
UNGER: Second.
VOTE: BANEY: Yes.
UNGER: Yes.
DEBONE: Chair votes yes.
4. Before the Board was Consideration of Signature of Order No. 2011-014,
Extending a Fee Reduction for Temporary Restaurants until October 31,
2011.
Tom Kuhn and Eric Mone came before the Board. They explained that last
year the Board ordered that temporary restaurant fees be reduced, but this was
only in effect until July 1, 2011. There have been numerous temporary vendors
gearing up for various events and they are concerned about the cost going back
to what it used to be. The proposed Order keeps the fee reduction in place
through October.
Commissioner Unger noted that State law impacts those who want to provide
these services, and the Board felt that the fee reduction made sense. Mr. Mone
said that the passage of House Bill 2868 is looking promising. Commissioner
Unger noted that the Order explains how the difference in fees that the
Department would make otherwise would be handled.
UNGER: Move signature of Order No. 2011-014.
DEBONE: Second.
VOTE: UNGER: Yes.
DEBONE: Vice Chair votes yes.
Minutes of Board of Commissioners' Business Meeting Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Page 4 of 8 Pages
5. Before the Board was Consideration of Approval of Financial Support to
Environmental Health to Cover Fee Waivers for Benevolent Organizations.
Mr. Mone explained that eight benevolent organizations have asked for a fee
waiver because of the work they do for the community. Inspections occur twice
a year and it takes some time because volunteers provide much of the labor.
The Board has always covered the cost of the fees to help these organizations.
Commissioner Unger said that the Department would be compensated for the
exemption. He does not want to include the dollar amount because there could
be others who need assistance as well. Mr. Mone stated that he appreciates the
consideration for those as well, as there are a few more that he is in contact
with. Commissioner Unger wants to leave it up to the Department as to
whether others fit the criteria.
Taffy Gleason of the Bend Community Center said that having the fee waived
means that they and other groups can serve more people who have nothing to
eat. Every group doing the same work faces this same challenge. It is
important to have the inspections and to educate the volunteers, and the work
Mr. Mone does is very valuable.
UNGER: Move approval.
DEBONE: Second.
VOTE: UNGER: Yes.
DEBONE: Vice Chair votes yes.
Before the Board was Consideration of the Consent Agenda.
UNGER: Move approval.
DEBONE: Second.
VOTE: UNGER: Yes.
DEBONE: Vice Chair votes yes.
Consent Agenda Items.
6. Signature of Resolution No. 2011-021, Appointing a Financial Assistance
Administrator for Health Services, and Authorizing the County Administrator
to Approve Related Documents
7. Signature of Order No. 2011-009, Declaring Some County Personal Property
Surplus and Authorizing its Sale
Minutes of Board of Commissioners' Business Meeting Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Page 5 of 8 Pages
8. Signature of Resolution No. 2011-032, Transferring Appropriations in the
Humane Society of Redmond Fund
9. Signature of Resolution No. 2011-033, Transferring Appropriations in the
Deschutes County 911 Building Construction Fund
10. Signature of Resolution No. 2011-034, Transferring Appropriations in the
Deschutes County RV Park Fund
11. Signature of Resolution No. 2011-044, Transferring Appropriations in the Solid
Waste Fund
12. Signature of Resolution No. 2011-045 Transferring Appropriations in the IT
Reserve Fund
13. Signature of Resolution No. 2011-046, Transferring Appropriations in the
Sheriff's Office Fund
14. Signature of Resolution No. 2011-047, Transferring Appropriations in the GIS
Dedicated Fund
15. Signature of Resolution No. 2011-049, Transferring Appropriations in the
Deschutes County Health Benefits Trust Fund
16. Signature of Resolution No. 2011-050, Transferring Appropriations in the
Deschutes County General Fund — Clerk's Office
17. Signature of Resolution No. 2011-051, Transferring Appropriations from the
General Fund to the RV Park Fund
18. Signature of Resolution No. 2011-052, Transferring Appropriations in the Fair
& Expo Center Fund
19. Signature of Letters Reappointing Eric Beck, Jim Clinton, Tom Davis and
Michael Fisher to The Upper Deschutes Watershed Council Board of Directors,
through January 31, 2014
20. Signature of Letters Accepting the Resignation of Glen Bates and Sami
Fournier from the Bicycle & Pedestrian Advisory Committee, and Thanking
them for their Service
21. Signature of a Letter Accepting the Resignation of Tom Farruggia from the
Howell's Hilltop Acres Special Road District Board of Directors, and Thanking
him for his Service
Minutes of Board of Commissioners' Business Meeting Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Page 6 of 8 Pages
22. Signature of a Letter Appointing Gary 011erenshaw to the Howell's Hilltop
Acres Special Road District Board of Directors, through December 31, 2012
CONVENED AS THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE 9-1-1 COUNTY
SERVICE DISTRICT
23. Before the Board was Consideration of Approval of Weekly Accounts
Payable Vouchers for the 9-1-1 County Service District (two weeks) in the
Amount of $42,003.50.
UNGER: Move approval, subject to review.
DEBONE: Second.
VOTE: UNGER: Yes.
DEBONE: Vice Chair votes yes.
CONVENED AS THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE EXTENSION AND 4-1-1
COUNTY SERVICE DISTRICT
24. Before the Board was Consideration of Approval of Weekly Accounts
Payable Vouchers for the Extension/4-1-1 County Service District (two
weeks) in the Amount of $5,885.29.
UNGER: Move approval, subject to review.
DEBONE: Second.
VOTE: UNGER: Yes.
DEBONE: Vice Chair votes yes.
RECONVENED AS THE DESCHUTES COUNTY BOARD OF
COMMISSIONERS
25. Before the Board was Consideration of Approval of Weekly Accounts
Payable Vouchers for Deschutes County (two weeks) in the Amount of
$5,876,846.08.
UNGER: Move approval, subject to review.
DEBONE: Second.
VOTE: UNGER: Yes.
DEBONE: Vice Chair votes yes.
Minutes of Board of Commissioners' Business Meeting Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Page 7 of 8 Pages
26. ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA
None were offered.
Being no further items discussed, the meeting adjourned at 10:55 a.m.
DATED this 13` Day of
Deschutes County Board of Commissioner
ATTEST:
Recording Secretary
Tammy Baney, Chair
2011 for the
Anthony DeBone, Vice
hair
Alan Unger, Commissioner
Minutes of Board of Commissioners' Business Meeting Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Page 8 of 8 Pages
0TES
Deschutes County Board of Commissioners
1300 NW Wall St., Suite 200, Bend, OR 97701-1960
(541) 388-6570 - Fax (541) 385-3202 - www.deschutes.org
AGENDA REQUEST & STAFF REPORT
For Board Business Meeting of May 25, 2011
Please see directions for completing this document on the next page.
DATE: May 16, 2011.
FROM: Christopher Bell Department: Legal Phone #: 388-6624
TITLE OF AGENDA ITEM:
Discuss and vote on the ratification of the IUOE 1 year extension of the current Collective Bargaining
Agreement.
PUBLIC HEARING ON THIS DATE? NO.
BACKGROUND AND POLICY IMPLICATIONS:
The County's bargaining team and the Union's bargaining team have entered into a proposed Extension
Agreement for a 1 -Year Extension of the current Collective Bargaining Agreement. A copy of the
proposed Extension Agreement is attached.
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
None
RECOMMENDATION & ACTION REQUESTED:
Ratification of the 1 -Year CBA Extension Agreement.
ATTENDANCE: Christopher Bell
DISTRIBUTION OF DOCUMENTS:
Legal Department
MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING
Between
DESCHUTES COUNTY, OREGON
And
INTERNATIONAL UNION OF OPERATING ENGINEERS, LOCAL 701
In Tight of the current economic situation the parties hereby enter into this Memorandum
of Understanding (MOU) to extend the term of the current Collective Bargaining
Agreement between Deschutes County, Oregon (County), and the International Union of
Operating Engineers, Local 701 (Union), dated July 1, 2006, through June 30, 2011
(Agreement), for one additional year, July 1, 2011, through June 30, 2012. The Union
withdraws its option under Article 20:01 to open the Agreement for modification,
therefore the Agreement was not opened and, except as agreed to herein, all terms and
conditions contained in the Agreement, and all practices developed or arising between the
parties during the term of the Agreement, remain in place and unaltered. The parties
acknowledge and agree that, for the purposes of entering into any subsequent collective
bargaining agreement after the expiration of the Agreement, any and all such practices
shall not be binding on the parties unless such practices are either adopted by interim
agreement of the parties or expressly included in the terms of any subsequent collective
bargaining agreement after expiration of the Agreement and this MOU.
Furthermore, where the current Agreement has terminology relating to the last year of the
Agreement, i.e. "through June 30, 2011", "for the 2010 -2011 contract year", or words to
that effect, those dates are now interpreted to mean "through June 30, 2012" or "for the
2011 — 2012 contract year."
The parties acknowledge and agree that their agreement to extend the Agreement until
June 30, 2012, shall affect Articles 14:01 and 17:01 as follows:
• Compensation, Article 14:01, and Exhibit "B", Compensation Plan, the
COLA for July 1, 2011 through June 30, 2012, shall be a 0% increase.
Page 1 of 2
• Health, Welfare and Retirement, Article 17:01, Subsection (A), Health
Insurance, the County shall maintain at least the current level of
benefits for 701 Union members through June 30, 2012, and no
greater than a $95.00 payroll deduction per month per employee for
health insurance premium shall be deducted for the Agreement year
of 2011-2012.
It is hereby agreed between the Union and the County that the Agreement which expires June
30, 2011, shall be extended through June 30, 2012, as amended and explained herein, effective
July 1, 2011.
DATED this
Day of 2011.
BOARD OF CONINIISIONSER OF DESCHUTES COUNTY, OREGON
TAMMY BANEY, Commissioner
ALAN UNGER, Commissioner
TONY DEBONE, Commissioner
ATTEST:
Recording Secretary
7
MARK HOLLIDAY
BUSINESS MANAGER AND FINANCIAL SECRETARY
INTERNATIONAL UNION OF OREGATING ENGINEERS, LOCAL 701
Page 2 of 2
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS' MEETING
) REQUEST TO SPEAK
Agenda Item of Interest:
Name
P1=-.
Date: ‘ i 0 -C.,3, 3
Address ` 59q
(_ z t1\14t3
1.1
Phone #s
E-mail address
In Favor
Neutral/Undecided
Opposed
Submitting written documents as part of testimony? Yes n No
If so, please give a copy to the Recording Secretary for the record.
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS' MEETING
REQUEST TO SPEAK
Agenda Item of Interest: - C 1 ; ,
Name
Date: / PC /201 1
- E S - Fafiliao\f‘mrak,
Address >7 , W _ L a
DK ` -1Tb1
Phone #s (- 9 y P r ice''
E-mail address r,. ,cl,_,,fo.t-,d-, ; L
In Favor
Neutral/Undecided
Submitting written documents as part of testimony? V Yes
If so, please give a copy to the Recording Secretary for the record.
Opposed
No
OREGON AFSCME
160 NW Irving Ave, Bend, OR 97701
541-318-1731/877-906-7970/Fax 541-318-1731
www.oregonafscme.com
May 18, 2011
Deschutes County Commissioners,
1300 NW \Vall Street, Suite 200
Bend, OR 97701
RE: Cuuutv's Bargaining Proposals
Dear County Commissioners Baley, ['ngcr .u1d Debone:
1 work at Deschutes County Behavioral Health in the front office. 1 work directly with behayiund
health clients, answering phone calls, which include crisis calls; checking in clients, gathering new
client information and determining if they are eligible for services.
For the last couple of years, nay family has been struggling financially, as my husband was laid oft
from his construction job. He has since, thankfully, got a job «vise the trucking industry, bur we are
just barely malting it. With the cost of gas, groceries, and utilities, and property taxes going up every
year, we redly depend on the cost of living raise just to keep snaking ends meet. 1 f we weren`t to get
a (d )l .A raise, and the insurance costs \vent up, the only place nay family has 10 cut back is on food
because if we don't pay the mortgage and utilities, we won't have a home.
I do really appreciate my job at the county, which I think is a wonderful place to work, but please do,
not take our COLA raise and raise our insurance costs.
Sincerely,
Lisa Bushong
HEALTH SERVICES
2577 NE Courtney Drive • Bend, Oregon 97701
Public Health (541 ] 322-7400 • FAX (541) 322-7465
Behavioral Health [541 ] 322-7500 • FAX (541 ] 322-7565
www.deschutes.org
May 24, 2011
Deschutes County Commissioners
1300 NW Wall Street Suite 200
Bend, OR 97701
RE: County's Bargaining Proposals
Dear County Commissioners Baney, Unger and Bebone:
My name is Kelli Parks -Friesen. I have worked for Deschutes County for 15 years in Behavioral Health. I
work in the Fiscal Department, Health Care Billing. So I have extensive knowledge of Health Care, and
Mental Health policies and procedure as they relate to billing and collections. My job is to insure an
uninterrupted cash flow for the department. When 1 first started I was not familiar with Behavioral
Health or the services they provided. It didn't take long for me to realize what a valuable service we
provide. We are in Hospitals, Nursing Homes, Jails, Juvenile, Foster Care Homes, and Schools. We are in
Bend, Redmond, LA Pine. We are anywhere our community needs us 24/7. 1 am very proud to be apart
of that, I guess that's why I have stayed in Behavioral Health.
With the economy in the shape it's in I understand the cuts that some feel need to be made. At the
same time I know what those cuts would mean to me. I am currently at the top of my pay grade and
have not had a step increase in close to five years. I have had io learn to live on the same amount, but
with the inflation the way it is and continuing to climb it has been a challenge. Now I'm being faced with
yet another increase, in my Health Insurance Premiums. It's is difficult to know where I should make cuts
in my families budget, as I have had to cut so much already. This increase will not only put a burden on
my family but also my fellow employees who are at the bottom of their pay grade. They are the ones
that are going to feel this increase the most. I would like to thank each and every one of you for taking
the time to read my letter.
Sincerely,
Kelli Parks -Friesen
Behavioral Health
Enhancing the lives of citizens by delivering quality services in a cost effective manner.
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May 23, 2011
Commissioner Tammy Baney
Commissioner Alan Unger
Commissioner Tony Debone
1300 NW Wall Street, Suite 200
Bend, OR 97701
Dear Commissioners Baney, Unger, and Debone:
I have worked 4-1/2 years for Deschutes County at the Health Department. I currently work in Medical
Records, and as a backup for the front desk, switchboard, and for the Environmental Health Division
front desk. My duties here include protecting health information for individuals, as well as assisting
people with their needs pertaining to health and wellness. I also assist people asking about food
safety, and food service licensing.
I must say that I am not of the opinion that, we as AFSCME Union Members are being treated or
considered fairly in reference to the upcoming contract negotiations. I understand that these are
difficult times for us all, but proposing no COLA's or merit increases, and proposing that our monthly
payments for health insurance may be eventually increased to $200 plus per month is a real slap in the
face to employees. Our wages are already considered low when compared to other counties in
Oregon.
It is already a struggle to keep food on the table and gas in my vehicle so that I am able to get to work
daily and serve the public the way they need to be served. My take-home pay is only $2,000 a month
for a family of four. If we are required to pay these higher premiums for our insurance, what kind of
compensation will we get to offset the increase in our payments? If there is no additional
compensation, where am I to find another $150 to $200 plus for benefits? This just really hits our
budgets too hard. It also makes the morale in the office extremely low.
Other unions within the County are receiving their full COLA's, and I would hope that you feel all
employees are vital to the County and to the public. I ask that you please be fair to us as you have
been in the past. We have, in the past, given back to the budget via COLA freezes and Furlough days.
We are working more with less compensation. It is feeling like management is trying to take away the
wonderful reasons we have for working for the County.
I would also ask that you use extreme caution when considering the proposal to delegate full authority
over the unions and the negotiations to one person. That could have a horrific impact on the County
and the residents of Deschutes County.
As a taxpayer, voter, and a union employee, I want to personally thank you for taking the time to read
this letter.
I know the previous Commissioners have always tried very hard to be fair and equitable, and I hope this
will continue with this contract as well.
Sincerely,
Annette Ford
Medical Records Technician
May 18, 2011
Deschutes County Commissioners,
1 300 NW Wall St, Ste. 200
Bend, Or 97701
RE: County's Bargaining Proposals
Dear County Commissioners Baney, Unger and Debone:
My name is Maria O'Neill, I work for the WIC Program as a Certifier which means I
enroll qualifying clients by reviewing their health and diet history and then
making appropriate referrals to other agencies if needed, assigning risk codes
based on their history and schedule follow up appointments for those clients, I
teach classes on breastfeeding and prenatal nutrition, child nutrition classes,
infant feeding, issue breastfeeding pumps and counsel moms with breastfeeding
problems. Currently our caseload is over 4000 families due to the economy. I am
married but have a single income household, I have four kids, live in La Pine, my
take home pay is $2432 a month and already spend at least $260 a month in gas
just to come to work, not to mention the price of food and clothing. I don't qualify
for food stamps or any other assistance program. I love the work I do, I know we
help a lot of people which in turn with the vouchers we issue help the economy in
Central Oregon. I simply cannot afford to accept the offer the County has on the
table now.
Sincerely,
/ A
Maria O'Neill
May 23, 2011
Commissioner Tammy Baney
Commissioner Alan Unger
Commissioner Tony Debone
1300 NW Wall Street, Suite 200
Bend, OR 97701
Dear Commissioners Baney, Unger, and Debone:
I have worked for Deschutes County for over 22 years and have always truly enjoyed what I do and the
people I work with. I started out in the Health Department as an Office Assistant, and then was
promoted to a Senior Secretary in Community Development (Land Use Planning Division). After
working in land use planning for 14 plus years, I transferred to the Environmental Health Division and
was promoted to Administrative Secretary/Licensing Coordinator. We have now been moved to the
Health Services building.
I have always appreciated our Commissioners because they have always gone to bat for us as
employees when it was needed and have stood their ground for us. Even before there was a Union,
the Commissioners were fair with cost of living increases annually, and health benefits that were far
above other entities.
When there was a recession long ago, instead of giving us cost of living increases, the Commissioners
voted to begin paying our PERS. They did their best to not take away from what the employees were
receiving in wages and benefits.
While I realize that the economy of our Country, State, and County is on rocky ground, it is extremely
disturbing to see what some of the proposals from the County are in the current negotiations. I truly
don't mind paying $65 instead of $50 per month for my health insurance benefits. That is truly a
bargain, so to speak. However, in the near future, I cannot afford to be paying over $100 to possibly
over $200 for health insurance benefits and not get any cost of living increase to offset the expense.
The fact that the proposal for AFSCME employees is for no COLA, is a big concern as I know other
unions within the County are receiving up to 6% COLA. This is rather frustrating because I would like
to believe that I am as valued an employee to the County Commissioners as those who will be
receiving those COLA's.
I would ask that you strongly consider this contract with the AFSCME represented employees and
negotiate a contract that is fair and considerate of both the Commissioners and the employees. Please
also carefully reconsider the proposal to delegate full authority to one person. I believe this would be a
grave disservice to the residents of Deschutes County and to the employees.
Thank you for your consideration on our behalf.
Sincerely,
l ,
1,-H,(�:
Sandy Rirgr` /1
Administr tiv"e Secretary/Licensing Coordinator
May 20, 2011
OREGON AFSCME
160 NW Irving Ave, Bend, OR 97701
541-318-1731/877-906-7970/Fax 541-318-1731
www.oregonafscme.com
Deschutes County Commissioners
1300 NW Wall Street, Suite 200
Bend, OR 97701
tammy baney@deschutes.orq, alan unger@co.deschutes.or.us,
tony debone@co.deschutes.or.us, board@co.deschutes.or.us
RE: County's Bargaining Proposals
Dear Commissioners Baney, Unger and Debone:
By way of introduction, my name is Jeff Freund and I have been a Registered
Environmental Health Specialist (health inspector) for the County for nearly 12 years.
My office (7.8 FTE) administers state and federal environmental protection programs for
food safety, drinking water and traveler's accommodations. In total, we assist and
regulate over 1000 licensed facilities (restaurants, pools, and hotels), 170 public water
systems serving 130,000 people and over 600 temporary food vendors annually. In
addition, we ensure safe programs for schools and child care centers and respond to
public health outbreaks and the gamut of environmental issues. That said, we fill a
unique niche and are an invaluable and integral part of our community. I am confident
you all agree, assuming of course, you drink water and eat food.
In reviewing the proposed contract between the county and AFSCME as well as Mr.
Kanner's budget proposal, I can only say that I am disappointed. The proposal
exemplifies how little Mr. Kanner values his employees. To ignore more appropriate and
obvious cost cutting options and place the burden predominantly on personnel is
shortsighted and naive. In addition to the wage and benefit cuts, the proposal appears
to remove any remaining oversight by the commissioners and gives the administrator
complete control. It is a dangerous prospect to put a single individual at the helm
without accountability.
Although eliminating a COLA may be tolerable yet uncomfortable for some, it would
create a significant hardship for others. Add the loss of an annual step increase and a
potential 450% jump in the health insurance premium, and the result could be
devastating considering the ever increasing cost of living. My office was forced to
accept a 10% cut in work hours for over two years, so I've experienced how these
seemingly minor changes can have major impacts on families, morale and motivation.
I believe employees would be willing to compromise on some of these issues given the
current economic climate, but most will simply be unable to afford the contract as
proposed.
OREGON AFSCME
160 NW Irving Ave, Bend, OR 97701
541-318-1731/877-906-7970/Fax 541-318-1731
www.oregonafscme.com
The intent of this letter campaign is to impress upon you that AFSCNIE represented
employees, a workforce of approximately 350, value and care about their jobs, their
families and their community. We are taxpayers and voters and are paying attention.
Respectfully,
Jeff Freund, REHS
OREGON AFSCME
160 NW Irving Ave, Bend, OR 97701
541-318-1731/877-906-7970/Fax 541-318-1731
www.oregonafscme.com
May 24, 2011
Deschutes County Commissioners
1300 NW Wall Street, Suite 200
Bend, OR 97701
tammy baneylddeschutes.org, alan unger(a co.deschutes.or.us
tone deboneCco.deschutes.or.us, board@co.deschutes.or.us
RE: Deschutes County Bargaining Proposals (AFSCME)
Dear Commissioners Bailey, Lager and IT cBone-
1 have worked for this Count- for almost 13 years. I have watched how hard the
Commissioners have worked to build relationships with the County l',mployccs. I am
dismayed how the current County .Administration is tieing to undermine the Board's
relationship with employees through the Current contract negotiations and his
rewriting of the policy regarding the 1';B_A2. committee. 'I'hc relationship with the
Board of Commissioners is quickly eroding and respect for county employees appears
at a new low. Some relationship is left --It was only because of FIs. Baney's letter on
behalf of the Board that I was willing to consider using the County medical clinic. 1
urge the Board to continue to be involved in the relationship with County
l ',mployces. We need good leadership and you need good supporters.
Idisabeth Finchcr Ruyck I.! d. O\IHl' T\CC C_AI)C11I MAC
.Addiction Recovery Team
Child Welfare
541-689-8958
OREGON AFSCME
160 NW Irving Ave, Bend, OR 97701
541-318-1731/877-906-7970/Fax 541-318-1731
www.oregonafscme.com
May 24, 2011
Deschutes County Commissioners
1300 NW Wall Street, Suite 200
Bend, OR 97701
tammy baney@deschutes.org, alan unger@co.deschutes.or.us tony debone@co.deschutes.or.us,
board@co.deschutes.or.us
RE: Deschutes County Bargaining Proposals (AFSCME)
Dear Commissioners Baney, Unger and Debone:
My name is Toby Cundell and I have worked for the Deschutes County IT Department for nearly 7 years.
I am involved in providing web and data services, such as our county website, land, tax and property
information (DIAL) to not only fellow Deschutes County employees but to all Deschutes County citizens
and beyond.
I want to state up front that although I am represented under the umbrella of AFSCME, I am not an
active dues -paying member of the union. I do not feel that they speak for me all the time. I am in direct
disagreement with the unions' political philosophy outside of their representation of Deschutes County
employees and the way that the union dues are distributed to various organizations, some of which I
have sharp religious, moral and political differences.
That said, I do want to join AFSCME and all of the other county employees in our collective disagreement
with the proposed changes being offered by the County to the union for the new contract. I have 2 main
concerns:
• There are a set of checks and balances in our governmental structure that I believe are being
violated by the new proposal. Currently, no one entity in the county has unilateral decision
making power, i.e. various boards and committees are accountable to the County Commissioners
and the County Administrator, the County Administrator is accountable to the County
Commissioners and the County Commissioners are accountable to every one of the citizens of the
county. The new proposal seems to remove almost all of this accountability. It removes some of
the boards and committees (specifically the EBAC committee) power to recommend policy
directly to the County Commissioners. The new proposal in essence lowers them to being under
the County Administrator who then can, at his discretion, forward the committee
recommendations (or not) to the County Commissioners while also recommending policy changes
without input from the committee. It also changes the Committees charter from being a
Committee to an entity that is only possible through the existence of a county policy, and whose
very existence would seemingly be at the whim of the County Administrator.
• I am a single dad of three and I came to the County in 2004 because of the benefits the County
has to offer. I left a job that paid more but did not have the benefits that I enjoy here. I could
go to almost any other job in my profession and make more money but the benefits of working
for the County have in the past mostly offset the difference in pay and I truly do enjoy working
for the citizens of this County. That said, the proposed changes to the monthly premium
payment for health care in addition to no COLA for this year represent nearly a net 10%
reduction in real dollars for me to provide for my children with. The proposed changes to the
health care premium also represent a fundamental change with how that premium is calculated,
it is not based on solely how much the self-funded plan needs to stay viable, it would now
represent a variable percentage set by the County Administrator of how much each department
OREGON AFSCME
160 NW Irving Ave, Bend, OR 97701
541-318-1731/877-906-7970/Fax 541-318-1731
www.oregonafscme.com
is charged during the budget cycle. Again that shows more shifting of the balance of power to
the County Administrator.
I am very concerned about the proposed contract because to me it seems that this contract negotiation is
not being used to best serve the interests of the County and its residents or the employees represented
by the AFSCME union. To me this proposal seems to be more about how to create an imbalance of
power in our County government from a checks and balances based system to a system where most of
the decision making and accountability comes from an unelected "chairman of the board" who is
accountable to no one.
It also concerns me that the proposed contract seeks to remove any power from the EBAC committee
and transfers oversight of our benefits programs to the County Administrator.
These proposed changes to our contract will have a major impact our families, our morale and our
motivation. I strongly believe that most employees would be willing to make compromises and sacrifices
because we understand the current economic climate, but most are simply not able to afford the current
proposal.
Sincerely,
Toby Cundell
Web Applications Developer
OREGON AFSCME
160 NW Irving Ave, Bend, OR 97701
541-318-1731/877-906-7970/Fax 541-318-1731
www.oregonafscme.com
May 18, 2011
Deschutes County Commissioners,
1300 NW Wall Street, Suite 200
Bend, OR 97701
Hand Delivered & Scnt via email:
tannin- bane*dcschutcs.org, alan unger(ci'co.dcschutcs.or.us, tom- debonc@,co.dcschutes.or.us,
board(uco.deschutes.or.us
RE: County's Bargaining Proposals
Dear Countv Commissioners Bailey, Luger and l)cbonc:
\1� name is Geri 1 Iauser and I am a Geographic Information Systems _Analyst. I've been employed
permanently by Deschutes County since 1995. 1 now maintain several spatial databases, including
the County Control Grid in vyhich our taylot parcels are based. 1 xvork out of the TT Dept for the
Count- Surveyor, (:lcrh and Cartographer as well as for 1'T.
Haying worked and coordinated with 11:11l employees, supervisors and managers among the diverse
departments has given me a broad perspective. 'That's why I feel it is important that the rank and file
employees represented by .TSC\11 1 arc afforded a comprehensive employee contract. 1 am
frustrated to have sten good employees leave the County under circumstances that 1 think could
have been resolved in a more positive wap-.
I don't like the idea that the _Administration's contract proposal removes v ou, our elected
Commissioners, from the process of being involved in personnel issues. 1:mplov ccs get one
performance evaluation a rear. The inability to grieve than evaluation docs not seem fair. Knowing
that your input is available is important to mc.
I worked very hard to become a permanent employee for 1)cschures Count- as opposed to other
places of employment because 1 recognized the value of the health, retirement, longevity, and
vacation benefits as being at least equal to or more valuable than the wages themselves. 1 have taken
advantage of the tuition reimbursement and in-house traininis available.
1 value these benefits tremendousl-. 1 reached the top of my pay- scale quite a xvhilc ago and CO1,.A
raises have been important to me since our health benefits have been impacted and prices have gone
LIP everywhere.
Thank you very much for raking time to read and consider our concerns.
Gera Hauser
gcrih(adeschutes.org
May 24, 2011
Deschutes County Commissioners
1300 NW Wall Street, Suite 200
Bend, OR 97701
RE: County's Bargaining Proposals
Dear County Commissioners Baney, Unger and Debone:
My name is Marcia Bischoff and I have had the privilege to work with the District Attorney's Office as a
trial assistant. I have worked for the county since 2002 at 20 hours per week. My job is to assist the
assistant district attorney to file charging paperwork in a timely and professional manner within the
circuit court and maintain the paperwork in an orderly fashion for record keeping.
The county's offer in the Budget I agree that all county employees forgo COLA raises for the fiscal year
2012 — with no exceptions. I believe this is to be a fair, strong and good message to the public tax
payers that we, the county employees will step up and do our part in this tough economy.
As for the health insurance issue I would like to say that I am grateful to have the incredible health
coverage that we do and being self-employed most of my life I realize that it is a fact, our cost as
employees is going to go up. I would hope it would not jump from $50 co -pay to as high as $222.80 per
employee and I would like to continue to see this issue reviewed and evaluated as it has been so far.
I am in favor of the County management bargaining team to respond to the County Commissioners and
am trusting that all people involved are looking out for the best for everyone. These are tough issues
and there are no easy answers that everyone is going to be in favor of.
Sincerely,
Marcia J. Bischoff
May 24, 2011
Deschutes County Commissioners,
1300 NW Wall Street, Suite 200
Bend, OR 97701
Hand Delivered & Sent via email:
tammy baney(deschufs..org, alan under@co.deschutes.or.us
tony debone@co.deschutes.or.us, board@co.deschutes.or.us
RE: County's Bargaining Proposals
Dear County Commissioners Baney, Unger and Debone:
My name is Jill Erickson and I have been a 'Trial Assistant with the Deschutes County
District Attorney's office for over 3 years. Last year I had a child and have hoped that an
opportunity for full-time employment might present itself; it recently has and I have
accepted a part-time position as a "Trial Assistant in the Juvenile Department. My husband's
employer will only provide health care coverage for the employee; therefore, I must carry the
family with regards to health insurance.
The proposed contract is very disconcerting. With the loss of our COLA and step increase,
coupled with an increase in health care costs would be financially devastating for our
family....ultimatcly, I would need to begin my search for full-time employment with the
County, which would take me away from my child and home.
Thank you for taking the time to review my letter,
Jill Erickson
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS' MEETING
REQUEST TO SPEAK
7//N—
Agenda Item of Interest: _ WILL/ / (,A"\(' l�> '�- Date:
Name t , /",
Address / (r
A6' ,k_-)
C4-(
Phone #s
E-mail address
In Favor Neutral/Undecided
Submitting written documents as part of testimony? • Yes
If so, please give a copy to the Recording Secretary for the record.
Opposed
No
May 23, 2011
Deschutes County Commissioners
1300 NW Wall Street, Suite 200
Bend OR 97701
Re: County's Bargaining Proposals
Dear County Commissioners Baney. Unger, and Debone:
My name is Robin Pelham; I work for Behavioral Health in the Developmental Disabilities
Program. I have been with Deschutes County for two years and love my job working with
families whose children have developmental disabilities. I know that every minute I spend
advocating or supporting people in difficult situations, the payoff is more than my monthly
paycheck. Many have personally told me how much my work means to them.
As you are aware, social services is not a high paying profession and my current take home pay
is around $2700 a month: barely enough to support myself and two college-age daughters.
However. the benefits package the county has provided has been a blessing as my daughter has
gone through some difficult medical issues. The county contract proposal to the union seeks to
strip the EBAC of benefits decisions and place it solely in the hands of the county administrator,
Dave Kanner, leaving him unaccountable to anyone. This is a prospect that would affect me
personally. As he proposes to increase employee contributions to as much as 10%, I can foresee
my paycheck being cut by over $200. In addition, Mr. Kanner's budget proposals include
freezes to both COLA and step increases. I realize that in difficult economic times, we need to
make concessions, but as a person on the lower end of the pay scale and for others in my
situation. it is difficult to make ends meet as it is. Eliminating both raises is discouraging and
causes me to feel that my contribution to the public is not valued.
The contract proposal also includes eliminating you, the county commissioners, from all
important oversight decisions, again leaving the county administrator with complete control and
no accountability. I do not believe one person should have that kind of power.
Thank you for taking the time to read this.
Warm Regards.
Robin Pelham
1669 West Carson Ave
Sisters, Oregon 97759
May 23, 2011
Deschutes County Commissioners
1300 NW Wall Street, Suite 200
Bend, OR 97701
Re: County's Bargaining Proposals
Dear County Commissioners Baney, Unger and Debone,
I am Lynne Keane & work part-time as a secretary & receptionist for the Behavioral Health -
Developmental Disabilities Department. There are some issues in the current proposed
agreement between Deschutes County & AFSCME Local 3997 that concern me & should be
brought to your attention. I think, if approved, this agreement will lower employee moral.
In Article 7 - Section 1 E proposes that employee performance evaluations can no longer be
grieved by the employee. I believe that takes power from the employee thus not making a
supervisor accountable to no one. In Article 14 - Section 1 the County proposes that reductions
in staff should be based on ten (10) factors with the first being job skill level and the last being
longevity with the County. I believe the loyalty of longevity under County employment should
be respected & honored. Longevity with the County should be the number one factor if
reduction in staff is necessary. In Article 17 - Section 4 the County proposes that an
employee's floating holiday must be used as a full day rather than be split in partial increments.
I don't see that as a justified policy and only brings inconvenience on the employee. Appendix
"C" regarding the Employee Benefits Advisory Committee is proposed by the County to be
totally eliminated making the County Administrator unaccountable to any one. The EBAC
offers objective insight into making the employee environment as beneficial to the employee as
well as the County as possible.
These are just my opinions but I do believe if the current County proposed agreement isn't
compromised to be more like the current agreement (especially in the areas I previously
mentioned), your County employees' effectiveness will be negatively affected & their potential
stifled. Thank you for hearing me out.
Sincerely,
Lynne Keane
May 21, 2011
Deschutes County Commissioners
1300 NW Wall Street, Suite 200
Bend OR 97701
Re: County's Bargaining Proposals
Dear County Commissioners Baney, Unger, and Debone:
My name is Sheila Conroy; I work for Behavioral Health in the Developmental Disabilities
Program. In October of 2008, I moved back to Central Oregon having accepted an offer to work
40 hours per week as quality assurance coordinator supporting both Crook County and Jefferson
County. In October of 2010. all quality assurance coordinator positions were eliminated by the
State of Oregon. With a staff member set to retire in August of 2010, I was offered and accepted
a demoted position as Senior Secretary working 28 hours per week for Deschutes County
Developmental Disabilities Program. The work I am now doing, although different from quality
assurance. still supports the population we serve by ensuring their health and safety. At the end
of the day. 1 feel good about what I do because I know the behind -the -scenes work I am currently
performing makes a difference in the life of an individual. In processing provider payments, I
feel good that the clients we serve feel a difference in their lives. too. by the quality of service
performed by the individuals being paid to care for them.
This career transition, while unwanted, has been a blessing because I am still employed working
in a field and department that I care about. What makes it difficult for me is that I carry insurance
on my entire family: me. my husband, and my two daughters. With my current salary of $2,416 a
month and insurance expense of $358, I cannot currently absorb any more expenses. My
commute is 102 miles per day, round trip, but I do it because I enjoy working for Deschutes
County and with the people I interact with each day.
It is often difficult to put oneself in the shoes of another, but it is my sincere hope that the
commissioners read my letter and take it to heart.
Thank you for your time.
Warm Regards,
r
f
Sheila Conroy
475 NE Gumwood Lane
Madras OR 97741
May 25, 2011
Deschutes County Commissioners
1300 NW Wall Street, Suite 200
Bend OR 97701
RE: County's Bargaining Proposals
Dear County Commissioners Baney, Unger, and Debone:
My name is Robyn DeAroll, and I work for Deschutes County Behavioral Health — Developmental
Disabilities (DD) Program. I am a service coordinator, and I support adults with developmental
disabilities who live in foster care. My job consists of monitoring the services received and
advocating for adults living and working in communities in Deschutes County. This is a very
challenging and rewarding position, and 1 cannot imagine working in any other position at this time
in my life.
I was initially hired in 9/1991 as a support staff for the DD Program, and I have held various
positions with the County since that time—most of which have been with the DD Program. I love
working on this team and for the County.
However, with the down turn of the economy over the past few years, my husband's construction
company has become more or less non-existent. What I mean by that is he has been a general
contractor since 1999, but his business suffered tremendously in 2010. His net income for that year
vvas just over $8,000. Subsequently, earlier this year, I asked and was granted a "hardship" approval
to cash in my Deferred Compensation account to help with basic living expenses. We have two
sons. Our oldest is in college, and our youngest will be graduating this June and going to college in
the fall.
The reason for this letter is to ask you not to increase our insurance premiums. At this point, my
family cannot afford any additional expenses going out of our budget each month. My paycheck is
stretched to its limit as it is, and increasing health benefit premiums would be infeasible for my
family's budget.
Please consider not increasing the County's health benefit premiums. 1 thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
1;
Robyn De\ olll
May 24, 2011
Deschutes County Commissioners
1300 NW Wall Street. Suite 200
Bend, OR 97701
Dear Commissioners Tammy Baney, Tony Debone and Alan Unger,
My name is Tara Hare and I am a licensed professional counselor and a mental health therapist
with the Early Assessment and Support Alliance (EASA) program for Deschutes County
Behavioral Health (DCBH). I serve individuals age 1 5-25 years old and their families who are
dealing with early onset symptoms of psychosis. At EASA we are working on cutting edge and
evidence based practices to reach out to individuals before they get very ill to help them focus on
holistic wellness and recovery. I provide individual and family therapy, case management and
ongoing support for their wellness needs.
Currently I am not a union represented employee because I recently transferred from another
team with DCBH to EASA. While my job title, mental health specialist II, did not change, I went
from working for the county for 3.5 years in a union represented position to a "temporary"
position for 18 months that is not union represented. While this alone is disappointing and cause
for concern in how it appears most all current hires are slated as "temporary," that is not the
reason I am writing to you. I am writing to you to share my concerns about the union contract
changes that have been submitted for this next year.
I am a recently divorced single woman living on my own. After finally being able to short sale a
house and having no outstanding debt other than school loans, I am just getting by living
paycheck to paycheck due to the high cost of living in Central Oregon. While I don't have any
dependents, merely raising the cost of benefits for me alone would cause me to have to pay
another $300 a month, an expense that I cannot afford on my tight budget. I don't overspend, I
don't have credit card debt, I pay my bills on time and I am wise with my money, but I don't
have the funds to pay a higher cost for medical coverage. I have worked for various private, non-
profit organizations prior to coming to the county and the price for insurance for me was
significant and the price for any dependents was outrageous. One of the reasons I chose a smaller
monthly paycheck with DCBH was for the solid benefit plan that made me feel like Deschutes
County actually cares about their employees.
In addition, letting Dave Kanner make all the final decisions with limited oversight and limited
input from the Union or from county employees is very concerning. It feels like we are headed
into a dictator -type state rather than in a democracy with checks and balances for those in power.
Please consider implementing the Union's response to the possible changes recommended by
Dave Kanner.
Than you for your time and consideration,
Tail HSre, LPC
tarahare u),,mail.com
May 19, 2011
Deschutes County Commissioners,
1300 NW Wall Street, Suite 200
Bend, OR 97701
RE: County's Bargaining Proposals
Dear County Commissioners Baney, Unger and Debone:
I have worked for Deschutes County Developmental Disabilities Program as a Developmental Disabilities
Case Manager for over thirteen years. I provide advocacy and resource development to families and
their children with disabilities. The children that I work with have been diagnosed with disabilities such
as Autism, Down syndrome, Traumatic Brain Injury and Cerebral Palsy. I love my job as I have the
opportunity to connect families with resources and supports so that their children can live at home with
them as comfortably as possible while being supported and valued in our local community.
I am writing this letter because I am very concerned about the county's tentative budget and how it will
affect my own family. I am a full-time working mother of two young children. As a family with young
children, it is very important for us to maintain a strict budget each month while also maintaining health
insurance. Both of my children were born premature and spent extended time in the Neonatal Intensive
Care Unit before they could come home. My son continues to have health issues that periodically
require medical attention. I make $3,015.35 per month working for Deschutes County. If I were to
accept the county's current offer that includes possibly an additional $222.80 per month in insurance
costs, it would mean that I would bring home $2,792.55, which is significantly less each month. That, in
addition to the proposed no COLA raise for next year would negatively impact my family's financial
situation and possibly the future medical care for my children.
As I just indicated, I am very concerned about the financial aspect of the proposed budget, but
there are other aspects of the budget that I am equally concerned about. One such aspect is not being
able to grieve future evaluations if the need arises and the move to replace the role of County
Commissioners and replace their oversight with Dave Kanner in the grievance and disciplinary processes.
I am aware that these are difficult times for all of us and that the budget is a work in progress and a
great challenge to complete. I thank you for taking the time to read this letter and consider my
concerns.
Sincerely,
.lasephine Zazuet'a arat�
May 25, 2011
Deschutes County Commissioners,
1300 NW Wall Street, Suite 200
Bend, OR 97701
Hand Delivered & Sent via email:
tammy baney@deschutes.org, alan un ernco.deschutes.onus tony debone@co.dcschutes.or.us,
board@co.deschutes.or.us
RE: County's Bargaining Proposals
Dear County Commissioners Baney, Unger and Debone:
I have been working with Deschutes County Mental Health as a Developmental Disability Service
Coordinator for almost eight years. The major part of my job is to ensure that adults with a
developmental disability have a plan that will meet their health and safety needs. I feel privileged to
have this role and responsibility for some of the most vulnerable citizens within our County.
I came to Deschutes County via the State of Washington due to my husband transferring here. I
made this decision based on the benefit package and compensation. Since then, my husband has
lost his job in Bend and is currently unemployed and therefore I am the sole income earner in my
household. I am concerned about the proposed contract changes and how these will impact our
family budget.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Brenda S. Kappus
May 23, 2011
Deschutes County Commissioners,
1300 NW Wall Street, Suite 200
Bend, OR 97701
RE: County's Bargaining Proposals
Dear County Commissioners Baney, Unger and Debone:
Nly name is Deanna, I want to start by saying I am grateful to have lived in Bend all of my
life and to have a job that is so rewarding. I work for the Deschutes County Developmental
Disabilities Program serving children and adults in LaPine, Bend, Redmond, and Sisters. The
list of services we provide to our families could look like the Webster's dictionary so in
summary; I assist families in receiving services, equipment, and supplies for their disabled
child or adult. My ultimate goal for these individuals is to sec them live a visible, healthy,
productive life and become contributing tax paying citizens of our community.
The reason for writing to my County Commissioners today is to voice my concern about the
offer that has been presented to Deschutes County employees. Frankly, it is disheartening
and scary. I am a single mother of two; attempting to put one through college and assisting
another child with disabilities continue to be an independent tax paying citizen in our
community. 1 bring home approximately $2,500 per month working for the County. If I
were to accept the county's current offer that includes an additional increase in insurance
costs, and pay freezes, it would mean choosing between helping put my daughter through
college or keeping my home. This scenario would likely lead to another Deschutes County
home going into foreclosure. We all know the sacrifices of living in such a beautiful County,
but sacrificing a home or a college education is a lot to ask. 1 am not ill prepared for life, I
put money aside when I could, but the cost of living in Bend has risen so dramatically the
last several years that paying the bills and taking care of my children is all I work for.
I am also concerned about the proposed contract language. It seems to me that in this
contract Dave Kanner would have the final, lone word in most situations. You as elected
officials are here because your community and its citizens believe in you and the job you do.
Having elected officials as part of a decision making team in my mind is imperative. Team
work usually results in better outcomes. It honestly concerns me to give so much power to
one man. Together, let uskeep Deschutes County the BEST places to live.
I appreciate the time you have taken to read this letter.
Sincerely,
Deanna Rukaven
(9,----.04,„\
wec\cP
BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS' MEETING
Agenda Item of Interest:
Name
Address
REQUEST TO SPEAK
�� l 7. --PAN. } , �t Date: S' 16
I�(N9 NAJ iTev\-17kU-k?
Ofe- 1774
C F;2co-,
Phone #s J�
E-mail address
In Favor
Neutral/Undecided
c p
Submitting written documents as part of testimony? Yes
If so, please give a copy to the Recording Secretary for the record.
Opposed
No
May 24, 2011
Deschutes County Commissioners
1300 NW Wall Street, Suite 200
Bend, OR 97701
tan -any baney(a deschutes.org, alan unger(aico.deschutes.or.us tony debone(&,co.deschutes.or.us,
board@co.deschutes.or.us
RE: County's Bargaining Proposals
- Dear Commissioners -Raney, Unger and Debone:
My name is Nicole Jenson and I have been a Trial Assistant with the County for nearly 11 years. I work in
the District Attorney's office with approximately 19 other Trial Assistants. In total, we assist the Deputy
District Attorney's with organizing and compiling of files, preparing and filing motions with the court,
preparing the file when it goes to trial, data entry, filing of paperwork and files, and any other tasks or
duties we are asked to do. Ultimately, the Trial Assistants are responsible for assisting with the
prosecution process of criminals.
I am very disappointed with the proposed contract between the County and AFSCME as well as Mr.
Kanner's budget proposal. The proposal only goes to show that Mr. Kanner isn't thinking about how
this will affect his employees and their current financial situations.
The loss of the COLA and annual step increase and a huge jump in the health insurance premium would
be devastating. I am married and have two children under the age of eight. I work part time and I make
$1600 per month to support my family. My husband is currently unemployed and going to school full
time. If I were to accept the county's current offer that includes an additional 20% in insurance costs, it
would mean that a third of my take home pay would go towards insurance costs. If this were to happen
then I would not be able to afford health insurance for my family and that is simply not feasible.
Sincerely,
Nicole Jenson
OREGON AFSCME
160 NW Irving Ave, Bend, OR 97701
541-318-1731/877-906-7970/Fax 541-318-1731
www.oregonafscme.com
Deschutes County Commissioners,
1300 NW Wall Street, Suite 200
Bend, OR 97701
Hand Delivered & Sent via email: tammv bancv(1 dcschutcs.org,
alan ungcr(i co.deschntcs.or.us tonv dcbon00co.dcschutcs.or.us, board@,co.dcschutcs.or.us
May 24, 2011
Dear County Commissioners Baney, Unger and Debone:
My name is Linda Barrett and I am the Behavioral Health/Child and Family Program Senior
Secretary/Mental Health Tech for Deschutes County. This program works with OHP children and their
families who have mental health needs in Deschutes County.
I provide support for approximately 35 therapists (who do an excellent job working with these children
and families and who care deeply about them and their future and well-being), a program manager and
two supervisors. I do feel blessed to have this job and to work with such fine people. I have been with
the County for almost 11 years.
However as blessed as I feel, I have to comment on the "proposed" changes that could possibly happen.
The first and foremost in my mind would be increasing my health care benefits payment to a potential
$222.80 per employee, which is ludicrous. As I recognize that we do have a good deal where our
benefits are concerned, one only has to look at our pay compared to the private sector or even that of
the federal government. With the high cost of food, gas (I live in Redmond) and utilities, that kind of
deduction to my salary would be devastating (and I know it would hurt all of the therapists I work with)
plus the fact that they are considering No COLA raises again this year, possibly no step increases and
longevity pay — wow!
I also would not want to see oversight in the grievance and disciplinary process taken away from you,
the County Commissioners and replaced solely by Dave Kanner, where are the checks and balances in a
process like that.
I truly believe that these proposed changes would have a significant impact on employee's morale and
motivation. Most employees would be willing to compromise to some degree because they do
understand the current economic climate, but most are simply not able to afford the current proposal.
I urge you all to really consider what is at stake with these new proposals and do what is right for our
employees and our Community — Less money in the pocket means less spending in the Community of
Deschutes County.
Thank you for all of your work,
Linda Barrett — 541-322-7608
OREGON AFSCME
160 NW Irving Ave, Bend, OR 97701
541-318-1731/877-906-7970/Fax 541-318-1731
www.oregonafscme.com
Deschutes County Commissioners,
1300 NW Wall Street, Suite 200
Bend, OR 97701
Hand Delivered & Sent via email: rammv banev qoeschutcs.org,
alae unger(ct co.cleschutes.or.us tone debonc c(co.deschuteS.or.us, board@ co.tleschutes.or.us
May 24, 2011
Deschutes County Commissioners
1300 NW Wall Street, Suite 200
Bend, OR 97701
tammy baney@deschutes.org, alan unger@co.deschutes.or.us, tony debone@co.deschutes.or.us,
board@co.deschutes.or.us
RE: Deschutes County Bargaining Proposals (AFSCME)
Dear Commissioners Baney, Unger and Debone:
My name is Melinda Campbell and I am a GIS Analyst/Programmer in the Information Technology
Department. I have worked for Deschutes County nearly 7 years. I administer geographic data both
internally for County employees and externally for outside data clients like realtors and title companies. I
am part of the team that maintains online applications such as DIAL and LAVA and I provide training to
the public in the use of these applications. I also provide mapping assistance to County departments that
do not have their own GIS staff, such as the County Forester. I assist with technology training provided
to employees by my department as well.
I am concerned about the proposed contract between the County and AFSCME as well as the County's
budget proposal. In addition to the wage and benefit changes, the proposal appears to remove any
remaining oversight by you, the County Commissioners, and gives the County Administrator more direct
control without "checks & balances". I feel the current system of checks and balances is a good one and I
do not believe the County Administrator, or any other single individual, should have this type of
unchecked power.
I am also concerned the proposed contract seeks to remove any power from the Employee Benefits
Advisory Committee (EBAC) and transfers oversight of our benefits programs to the County Administrator.
Once again, I do not believe one single individual should have the power to determine what is best for all
and have no one to answer to for the decisions that are being made.
I fear that the proposed changes will have major impacts on families, morale and motivation. I think
most employees would be willing to compromise on some of these points as we understand the current
economic climate, but most are simply not able to afford the current proposal.
Sincerely,
Melinda Campbell
GIS Analyst/Programmer
Deschutes County Information Technology
OREGON AFSCME
160 NW Irving Ave, Bend, OR 97701
541-318-1731/877-906-7970/Fax 541-318-1731
www.oregonafscme.com
Deschutes County Commissioners,
1300 NW Wall Street, Suite 200
Bend, OR 97701
Hand Delivered & Sent via email:
tammv Danev ((i dcschutcs.o1 , alae unHcrco.dcschutcs.or.us tone dchonc u;co.dcschutes.or.us,
hoard(ci co.dcschutcs.or.us
May 23, 2011
Deschutes County Commissioners
1300 NW Wall Street, Suite 200
Bend OR 97701
RE: County's Bargaining Proposals
Dear County Commissions Debone, Baney and Unger:
Allow me to introduce myself. I am Kadee Robertson. I have been employed with the Deschutes
County District Attorney's Office as a Trial Assistant for three and a half years. I enjoy my job
with the District Attorney's Office because I am able to assist the attorneys prosecuting the
criminal defendants. Myself and the other Trial Assistants in the office process files to and from
court. We also obtain evidence and copy it for the defense attorneys. As a trial assistant, I have
daily contact with the victims and witnesses of crimes. I help them to understand the status of
the case he/she involved with and the criminal justice process. I also assist victims to obtain
restitution for the out-of-pocket expenses as a result of the crimes. As a former crime victim
myself several years before being employed with the District Attorney's Office, I am familiar
with how confusing the "system" is. I enjoy helping the victims to understand how it all works. I
like working for the county to help serve the citizens of Deschutes County.
However, telling you about my job isn't the point I am trying to make with this letter. I am
writing to discuss the current county budget proposal for the AFSCNIE members. I am proud to
say at the age of 25, I bought a home last year. As a single woman, on my county income I was
able to buy a home. In fact, part of the home buying paperwork process was for me to create a
budget. My budget included these merit and COLA increases. Finances are tight and my
purchase was based on the knowledge that as a county employee I would be gaining step merit
pay increases and cost of living increases.
One of the many reasons I enjoy working for the county is the benefit package. I'll be honest, I
don't always keep up with all of the counties budgetary issues. But a few years ago when the
monthly employee rate for insurance jumped for $35 to $50, I noticed. I am also taking notice
OREGON AFSCME
160 NW Irving Ave, Bend, OR 97701
541-318-1731/877-906-7970/Fax 541-318-1731
www.oregonafscme.com
that it has been mentioned that the insurance rates per employee may jump to over $220 a
month! CRAZY! I can understand that the economy may justify the prior raise of $15, but to
continue to raise it that much during these hard financial times is crazy. I'm sure, I can speak for
everyone when I say, "We need to keep every penny we can." I am a healthy, single, woman. I
don't incur many medical bills. I can't imagine paying 4 times more than what we currently pay.
In addition, part of my problem with our insurance rates is — why should I have to pay the same
amount as an employee who may have her husband and three children on her plan? Why isn't
there a difference?
I simply can't afford a to maintain my budgeted lifestyle without the merit step increases, lack
of cost of living increase, compiled with the possibility of increased monthly insurance
premiums. My budget just can't stretch that far. Please consider with your bottom line— the
employees who work hard to make the county run.
Sincerely,
Kadee Robertson
May 24, 2011
Deschutes County Commissioners
1300 NW Wall Street, Suite 200
Bend, OR 97701
tammy baney@deschutes.org, alan unger@co.deschutes.or.us tony debone@co.deschutes.or.us,
board@co.deschutes.or.us
RE: Deschutes County Bargaining Proposals (AFSCME)
Dear Commissioners Baney, Unger and Debone:
My name is Toby Cundell and I have worked for the Deschutes County IT Department for nearly 7 years. I am
involved in providing web and data services, such as our county website, land, tax and property information (DIAL)
to not only fellow Deschutes County employees but to all Deschutes County citizens and beyond.
I want to state up front that although I am represented under the umbrella of AFSCME, I am nonan active dues -
paying member of the union. I do not feel that they speak for me all the time. I am in direct disagreement with the
unions' political philosophy outside of their representation of Deschutes County employees and the way that the
union dues are distributed to various organizations, some of which I have sharp religious, moral and political
differences.
That said, I do want to join AFSCME and all of the other county employees in our collective disagreement with the
proposed changes being offered by the County to the union for the new contract. I have 2 main concerns:
• There are a set of checks and balances in our governmental structure that I believe are being violated by
the new proposal. Currently, no one entity in the county has unilateral decision making power, i.e.
various boards and committees are accountable to the County Commissioners and the County
Administrator, the County Administrator is accountable to the County Commissioners and the County
Commissioners are accountable to every one of the citizens of the county. The new proposal seems to
remove almost all of this accountability. It removes some of the boards and committees (specifically the
EBAC committee) power to recommend policy directly to the County Commissioners. The new proposal in
essence lowers them to being under the County Administrator who then can, at his discretion, forward
the committee recommendations (or not) to the County Commissioners while also recommending policy
changes without input from the committee. It also changes the Committees charter from being a
Committee to an entity that is only possible through the existence of a county policy, and whose very
existence would seemingly be at the whim of the County Administrator.
• I am a single dad of three and I came to the County in 2004 because of the benefits the County has to
offer. I left a job that paid more but did not have the benefits that I enjoy here. I could go to almost any
other job in my profession and make more money but the benefits of working for the County have in the
past mostly offset the difference in pay and I truly do enjoy working for the citizens of this County. That
said, the proposed changes to the monthly premium payment for health care in addition to no COLA for
this year represent nearly a net 10% reduction in real dollars for me to provide for my children with. The
proposed changes to the health care premium also represent a fundamental change with how that
premium is calculated, it is not based on solely how much the self-funded plan needs to stay viable, it
would now represent a variable percentage set by the County Administrator of how much each
department is charged during the budget cycle. Again that shows more shifting of the balance of power
to the County Administrator.
I am very concerned about the proposed contract because to me it seems that this contract negotiation is not
being used to best serve the interests of the County and its residents or the employees represented by the
AFSCME union. To me this proposal seems to be more about how to create an imbalance of power in our County
government from a checks and balances based system to a system where most of the decision making and
accountability comes from an unelected "chairman of the board" who is accountable to no one.
It also concerns me that the proposed contract seeks to remove any power from the EBAC committee and
transfers oversight of our benefits programs to the County Administrator.
These proposed changes to our contract will have a major impact our families, our morale and our motivation. I
strongly believe that most employees would be willing to make compromises and sacrifices because we
understand the current economic climate, but most are simply not able to afford the current proposal.
Sincerely,
Toby Cundell
Web Applications Developer
05/24/11
Dear County Commissioner Baney. Unger and Debone,
My name is Candice Schiavone. and I work for the Behavioral Health Office as a Senior
Medical Office Assistant, my job helps Deschutes County residents assistance in
obtaining Mental Health services. which may help to keep the mentally ill out of the
hospital and from utilizing our police services. I enjoy my job and the clients I work for
and the dedicated therapists I work with.
A little about me:
I have worked for the county for almost 15 years and no longer receive yearly raises: I
only have our COLA's to look forward to. and my longevity raise every 5 years. My
significant other was in the construction field and has not been able to fine steady work:
we basically live on what I bring home. I travel from Lapine every day. and that is my
choice. but v-vith housing the way it is selling my hone would be at a tremendous loss.
With the increased price of gas, it has put a bind on my budget, and now with the possible
proposals, (the dramatic raise in our health insurance premiums and also no COLA), the
only choice we have is to cut back on food. We already cut out all forms of
entertainment -no going to movies; vacation consists of vvorking around the house,
dinners out consist of Figaro's pizza or subway sandwiches, however my daughter's
student loan payment, utilities and car insurance payment all have to be paid.
The proposal being made would only hurt my budget further in this trying economy.
Thank you for taking the time to read this letter it is greatly appreciated.
cauaci
May 24, 2011
OREGON AFSCME
160 NW Irving Ave, Bend, OR 97701
541-318-1731/877-906-7970/Fax 541-318-1731
www.oregonafscme.com
Deschutes County Commissioners,
1300 NW Wall Street, Suite 200
Bend, OR 97701
RE: County's Bargaining Proposals
Dear County Commissioners Bance, Unger and Debone:
My name is Bev Halverson, I work for the Health Services business office as a patient accounts
specialist. I bill out client's visits to commercial insurance and Oregon Health Plan. Many of our
clients have an inability to pay on their balances. I help them by setting up payment plans, or by
making sure their income level is correctly input so that they may qualify for a sliding scale discount.
:also, if their insurance doesn't cover immunizations, then I work closely with our immunization
department to get the shots reduced to the administration fee only, for children & high risk adults.
Always letting our clients know they will not be charged interest or sent to collections, and assuring
them that our door is always open to them regardless of a balance owed. I love my job & very much
enjoy helping our clients.
I'm currently going through a divorce, not by choice, but to escape a verbally & emotionally abusive
situation. I live at Crooked River Ranch, my take home pay is $1600.00 a month, my gas bill just to
come to work is currently $160.00 per month. If forced to pay a health insurance premium of
anything more than $65.00, I would no longer be able to afford health care for myself. With the
current rate of inflation, Mr. Kanner's proposal of no COLA or step increase is simply inhumane.
Sincerely,
Bev Halverson
May 18, 2011
Deschutes County Commissioners,
1300 NW Wall Street, Suite 200
Bend, OR 97701
RE: County's Bargaining Proposals
Dear County Commissioners Banev, Unger and Debone:
My name is Torn Russell. I work for the Developmental Disabilities program and soon will
be finishing my 17`h year with the county. I have been privileged to represent the
Developmental Disabilities program as a Service Coordinator for state/county funded
Comprehensive Services — services that provide 24 hours residential supports in small group
homes, foster care, and for some who live on their own with supports. During this time I
have developed effective relationships with our local service providers — ensuring that these
providers are in compliance with state OAR's but more than that ensuring that the clients
receive excellent services. The relationships that I have built enable the providers to be
efficient and client centered in these times of increased expectations and decreased funding.
I also feel extremely privileged to have been given this opportunity to have personal
relationships with as many as 100 Deschutes County citizens who have significant disabilities
and who most people in our communities do not even know exist.
When I chose this to do this kind of work I did it because I knew in my heart and soul that I
was put on this earth to do this. My wife understood this desire and has always totally
supported me in this career even though we both understood that it was not very lucrative.
We have always felt extremely grateful for the opportunity that I have had with Deschutes
County. We have always been able to provide for our three children who are now parents
raising their own children. We have 7 grandchildren now and are still assisting our children
when ever we can. We count on my income and our benefits to continue to meet our needs
and to be able to assist our extended family. The county's current offer that includes
additional insurance costs and lost of COLA's will have an immediate impact on my wife
and I and our children's families too. In this time of recession and inflation, the real cost of
living is going up faster that our current income can keep up. Additional loss of income will
significantly impact our ability to spend and to help the overall economy continue its slow
recover.
Thank you for this opportunity to share my thoughts on this important matter.
Torn Russell
May 23, 2011
Deschutes County Commissioners
1300 NW Wall Street, Suite 200
Bend, OR 97701
RE: County's Bargaining Proposals
Dear County Commissioners Baney, Unger and Debone:
My name is Michele Shanklin and I work at Behavioral Health. I am a secretary in the front office where
I greet and check in clients. I am also responsible for answering and directing phone calls, verifying OHP
eligibility, incoming/outgoing mail, and collecting information for therapists.
I am a single mother who has worked for Deschutes County for just over 12 years. In that time I have
seen our benefits change tremendously and not necessarily for the better. Now the County is proposing
to cut both step increases and cost of living raises. The cost of living is ever increasing while the County
is asking the diligent, hard working employees to continue at the same wages for years.
In the County's offer, there is also a proposal to increase insurance costs which literally could mean the
difference between having food on the table or have medical insurance. This is a real cause for concern
as my budget has already been stretched to near limits with the increase in gas prices.
I ask that the County reconsider the offer that is being proposed.
Thank you very much
Michele Shanklin
Deschutes County Behavioral Health
2577 NE Courtney Dr
Bend, OR 97701
May 18, 2011
OREGON AFSCME
160 NW Irving Ave, Bend, OR 97701
541-318-1731/877-906-7970/Fax 541-318-1731
www.oregonafscme.com
Deschutes County Commissioners,
1300 NW Wall Street, Suite 200
Bend, OR 97701
Hand Delivered & Sent via email:
tammbane deschutes.or_, alan unger@co.deschutes.or.us tony debone(p co.deschutes.or.us,
board@co.deschutes.or.us
RE: County's Bargaining Proposals
Dear County Commissioners Banev, Unger and Debone:
My name is Cheryl Gessner-Lee. I work for Behavioral Health in the Health Services
building at the Courtney location. Currently I work in Medical Records and Reception. I have a
variety of job dudes. I make sure charts are up to date with all current information we have and
receive. I help clinicians in many different aspects that will help them to service our clients in an
effective manner. I order all the forms for our clinic. I try to make myself available to help and cover
wherever I may be needed.
I am a single mother and I bring home 1956.00 a month. My son and I struggle as it is. I feel
I am a very hard worker and I do my very best to represent the County as a County worker. The
current offers that are being proposed at this time would really impact mine and my son's life. Please
take into consideration how many lives this will affect..
I want to thank you for taking the time to read and listen to my letter. I am proud to say I
work for the County.
Thank you,
Cheryl
aotoaln
essner-Lee
May 24, 2011
OREGON AFSCME
160 NW Irving Ave, Bend, OR 97701
541-318-1731/877-906-7970/Fax 541-318-1731
www.oregonafscme.com
Deschutes County Commissioners,
1300 NW Wall Street, Suite 200
Bend, OR 97701
Hand Delivered & Sent via email:
tammy baney@deschutes.org, alan unger@co.deschutes.or.us tony debone(@co.deschutes.or.us,
board@co.deschutes.or.us
RE: County's Bargaining Proposals
Dear County Commissioners Baney, Unger and Debone:
My name is Dilia Towery ; I am a Medical Record Technician for Behavioral Health at the
building located on Courtney Dr. As a Medical Record Technician I am responsible for making
sure clinicians have their charts for the clients they see from day to day. Along with getting their
charts to them I also have to make sure that all the records, progress notes, medication notes, and all
other important information is in the chart and available to the clinician so that they can have all this
information when meeting with the client. This information is very important and is used by the
clinician to best help the client. Along with this we also do a variety of other job duties as assigned
to keep medical records flowing efficiently.
I am a mother of 3 and bring home about $1900 a month working for the county. We are
struggling as it is and with the summer coming up and the kids out of school I will have to pay
additional child care. Accepting the county's current offer would mean an impacting cut in my pay
and that would not be feasible to our family's situation.
Thank you,
\AA TI\N QAAA(
Dilia Towery 0
05.18.11
Dear Deschutes County Commissioners:
My name is Fred Doolin and I'm a therapist with the adult treatment team at behavioral health. I've had
the privilege of serving the folks of this community for nearly 12 years now and I have always felt valued
and appreciated. Providing treatment for our neighbors who have limited resources and suffer from
mental health issues and/or may be drug affected not only very rewarding personally, but it also helps
prevent unnecessary use of Emergency Room services, helps reduce crime, reduces recidivism in our
county jail and helps people return to being productive and contributing members of our community; all
of which make central Oregon an amazing place to work and live. I have always felt well treated and
appreciated in my tenure here, but after reading the proposal sent out in an e-mail dated 04.28.11, I'm
afraid I have some concerns.
It appears to me that the proposal calls for the removal of the board of county commissioners from
several important decision and policy making processes leaving final decisions to just one person who is
not an elected official responsible to a constituency. That seems, on the surface, to open the door for
partiality/bias and the possibility of undermining a sense of fairness.
Also of concern is the language of "no greater than 20% of the per FTE cost of providing health benefits
under the adopted plan." Now, I'm not sure what specifically that means, but it sounds like it has the
potential of creating a significant hardship for some of our folks; particularly those at the lower end of
the pay scale.
Finally, I think I read that a budget had been submitted that reflected no pay increases for employees.
It's not clear to me whether the discussion was about COLAs, step increases or both. But that is not the
point of my concern. While I certainly understand a need for fiscal sensitivity, and I'm thinking the union
needs to be realistic in its requests in this area, my greater concern is about the topic being stated as
fact when to my understanding it has yet to be discussed/resolved in the bargaining process.
There are other issues. For example: the efforts to negotiate this as a five year contract. I'm not an
economist by any stretch but, in todays economic climate, I'm having a hard time seeing a five year
contract being prudent for either party.
I may have some, many or even all of my facts wrong here but I felt it was important to share my
observations and concerns. I love where I live and the people I work for (the citizens of Deschutes
County) and I'm interested in welfare of ALL involved.
Respectfully,
Fred Doolin
a f { BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS' MEETING
REQUEST TO SPEAK
Agenda Item of Interest: (IIi i'
Name F/9 Vit:' , l / I/ E /
Address :3 yo-- -5 t4) J ,�
7
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)O i9
Date: _
up] 111116
J' 1�1' T t4cG3v r 5k c g L i
X57
Phone #s 5 U / - "4- 8 - 55
E-mail address
In Favor
Neutral/Undecided
Submitting written documents as part of testimony? ["Yes
If so, please give a copy to the Recording Secretary for the record.
Opposed
No
May 24, 2011
OREGON AFSCME
160 NW Irving Ave, Bend, OR 97701
541-318-1731/877-906-7970/Fax 541-318-1731
www.oregonafscme.com
Deschutes County Commissioners,
1300 NW Wall Street, Suite 200
Bend, OR 97701
RE: County's Bargaining Proposals
Dear County Commissioners Bancy, Unger and Dcbone:
My name is Fawn Miller and I am a Patient Accounts Specialist who works at the Deschutes County
Health Department in the billing office. The Health Department provides very important services
to the citizens of Deschutes County, and I am happy to say- that I get to take part in helping to
provide them.
I started out working as a medical office assistant at the front desk of the Health Department and
then moved to the billing department two and one-half years later. I have been in the billing office
for three years now and do the billing for private insurance, OHP, CCARE for family planning, five
school-based clinics, Maternal Child Health (MGM), and Targeted Case Management for the Babies
First and Cacoon programs. I help clients understand their bilking statements, answer any questions
they may have, and listen when they just need to vent. I post payments from clients, private
insurances, OHP, and CCARE and they can range anywhere from a small amount to over $80,000.
Therefore, I feel that what we do in the bilking office is very important, as the dollars we generate is
in part how our department is able to continue to function and serve the public of Deschutes
County. I have a good work ethic, am hard working, and very particular about the work I do. 1
want my work to be right the first time so that it will reflect well on me and on the Deschutes
County Health Department, as well.
With the economy the way it is, 1 am very thankful that I have this job and all that it offers. But, a
few years ago 1 lost my husband of 29 years to a tragic accident and since then, I have been a single
income household. At this time my monthly take-home pay is approximately $2150. I have the
usual monthly utility bills (which are rising), car insurance, and because 1 am trying to maintain
keeping my home, there is the house payment, insurance and, as a tax payer, there are the property
taxes of over $2,200 per year. Then with the food prices rising and the outrageous gas prices, you
can see how the money doesn't go very far.
If the proposed contract gives no raises of any kind and the possibility of having to pay up to 20° o
($220) a month of our health care benefit plan cost, there would be at least $170 less in my paycheck.
For those county employees who have high salaries, they more than likely can withstand no COLA
and $170 less in their check. There are a large number of the County's AFSCME employees who
make much lower wages and cannot take that big of a cut in their paychecks each month. It is a big
struggle to make ends meet as it is now. Many of us fall somewhere between a "rock and a hard
A
OREGON AFSCME
160 NW Irving Ave, Bend, OR 97701
541-318-1731/877-906-7970/Fax 541-318-1731
www.oregonafscme.com
place" were we would not be eligible for food stamps or any kind of assistance. I would fall into
that group.
I also would like to add that I have been in a union before, but never active in one like I am with our
AFSCNIE local. I am currently the president of our AFSCME local and am also on our negotiating
team. In December 2010, I spent a week in Portland to learn the process of negotiating a contract.
It was long hours and somewhat intimidating at the time, but I came away from the training excited
to be a part of negotiating our new upcoming contract. I was also eager to sit across the negotiating
table and work together with management to come up with a contract that would benefit not only
the AFSCME employees but Deschutes County, as well. I saw the whole process as an opportunity
to build a good rapport between the County and its employees. Was I just naive in thinking that the
Commissioners and the upper management of Deschutes County would want to accomplish the
same?
I've been very sad to see that the attitude on the other side of the table seems to show no desire to
bargain in "good faith". This is very disappointing to me. I am hoping that the Commissioners will
prove me wrong and direct their administrator and negotiating team to bargain in "good faith" and
to keep an open mind.
As the proposed budget is now, there is no way I could afford it. I would lose my home and it
would break me.
Thank you for your time.
Sindrely,
Fawn Miller
1 OIL
May 20, 2011
Deschutes County Commissioners
Re: County's Bargaining Proposals
Dear County Commissioners Baney, Unger and Debone:
My name is Cherie Hodges; I have worked for Deschutes County Health Services Department for over 19
years. I am the only medical office assistant for the Redmond clinic, located at the Becky Johnson
Community Center. I do all of the "jobs" necessary to keep our clinic running efficiently and smoothly. I
answer the phone, make appointments, check clients in and out for appointments, do data entry for
billing, collect payments, make bank deposits, manage medical records, and answer many, many
questions every day unrelated to the Health department, often spending time looking for and giving
referral phone numbers or information to citizens who call or walk into this clinic. I am the face of a
Deschutes county employee to all of our clients, and all of the citizens of the county who walk in or call
on the phone. I am the first impression of a county employee to many people.
In the past 19 years I have seen our health insurance benefits get pared away from a very generous and
comprehensive benefit package (no co -pay, no out of pocket, $100 major medical deductible) to a plain
old 80/20% policy with co -pay, and large deductible. I am not so naive as to believe things shouldn't
change and costs don't rise, but as a long term employee, my insurance benefit doesn't provide the
same value it used too. It does concern me that Dave Kanner, our county administrator has proposed
that the employees pay up to 20% of the departments cost for insurance. Wow! That would make a
very large impact on my take home pay. Over $200 per month pay cut!
Having worked over 19 years for the county, you know that I have reached the top of my pay scale and
been stuck here for many years. My only hope of a pay increase is the COLA. My personal history with a
COLA is up and down. I have had them, I have deferred them, I have gone with out them, and I even
took a 10% reduction in pay for about a year and half. COLA' s have never really truly kept up with the
actual cost of living. They are a nice try at keeping our salaries sort of on the line with actual costs. In
reality my income has stayed pretty flat, while everything else has gotten more expensive.
I am proud to work for Deschutes County. I am one of the hundreds of exceptional county employees
who do our jobs with the highest work ethic, on the front lines, every day, providing excellent
representation for our employer.
I would urge you as commissioners to consider providing your employees with reasonable compensation
and benefits reflecting the jobs we do. This can be done be encouraging Dave Kanner and the county
management bargaining team to negotiate fairly and in good faith with the AFSCME team.
Respectfully,
May 20, 2011
Deschutes County Commissioners
1300 NW Wall Street, Suite 200
Bend, OR 97701
tammy banes@deschutes.org, alan unser@co.deschutes.or.us, tony debone@co.deschutes.or.us,
board@co.deschutes.or.us
RE: County's Bargaining Proposals
Dear Commissioners Bance, Unger and Debonc:
By way of introduction, my name is Jeff Freund and I have been a Registered Environmental Health
Specialist (health inspector) for the County for nearly 12 years. My office (7.8 FTE) administers state and
federal environmental protection programs for food safety, drinking water and traveler's
accommodations. In total, we assist and regulate over 1000 licensed facilities (restaurants, pools, and
hotels), 170 public water systems serving 130,000 people and over 600 temporary food vendors
annually. In addition, we ensure safe programs for schools and child care centers and respond to public
health outbreaks and the gamut of environmental issues. That said, we fill a unique niche and are an
invaluable and integral part of our community. I am confident you all agree, assuming of course, you
drink water and eat food.
In reviewing the proposed contract between the county and AFSCME as well as Mr. Kanner's budget
proposal, I can only say that I am disappointed. The proposal exemplifies how little Mr. Kanner values
his employees. To ignore more appropriate and obvious cost cutting options and place the burden
predominantly on personnel is shortsighted and naive. In addition to the wage and benefit cuts, the
proposal appears to remove any remaining oversight by the commissioners and gives the administrator
complete control. It is a dangerous prospect to put a single individual at the helm without
accountability.
Although eliminating a COLA may be tolerable yet uncomfortable for some, it would create a significant
hardship for others. Add the loss of an annual step increase and a potential 450% jump in the health
insurance premium, and the result could be devastating considering the ever increasing cost of living.
My office was forced to accept a 10% cut in work hours for over two years, so I've experienced how
these seemingly minor changes can have major impacts on families, morale and motivation. i believe
employees would be willing to compromise on some of these issues given the current economic climate,
but most will simply be unable to afford the contract as proposed.
The intent of this letter campaign is to impress upon you that AFSCME represented employees, a
workforce of approximately 350, value and care about their jobs, their families and their community.
We are taxpp "ers and voters and are paying attention.
///
Respectf
/ 1
Jeff Freund, REHS
May 24, 2011
Deschutes County Commissioners
1300 NW Wall Street, Suite 200
Bend, OR 97701
RE: County's Bargaining Proposals
Dear County Commissioners Baney, Unger and Debone:
I have recently become aware of the new contract and contract negotiations. As a county employee, I
felt the need to communicate my disappointment with the proposed contract. I currently work for the
Women, Infants and Children Program (WIC). The WIC program is a Nutrition Education program
serving some our most vulnerable citizens. We serve pregnant women, infant and children under the
age of 5 years. We not only provide food vouchers for nutritious foods, our programs key components
are nutrition education and referrals to other agencies in Deschutes County including School Based
Health Centers, Maternity Case Management(visiting home nurse program), Babies First, Healthy
Beginnings,(a prenatal care program for women with no insurance) to just name a few.
I am a mother of two children and I make $ 3,100 per month working for the county. My oldest
daughter attends college and my youngest daughter will start college in the fall. My family would
qualify for WIC if my children were the appropriate ages. If I were to accept the county's current offer
that includes additional 20% insurance costs, it would mean a cut in real dollars in my take home pay of
$2396.00. That is simply not feasible to our family budget.
Very Respectfully,
Theresa Reiter
May 23, 2011
Deschutes County Commissioners
1300 NW Wall Street, Suite 200
Bend, OR 97701
Re: County's Bargaining Proposals
Dear County Commissioners Baney, Unger and Debone:
My name is Grace Kennedy, I work for the Deschutes County Health Department with the WIC Program.
I began my work with WIC in August, 1987, and have been with the WIC Program continuously since that
time.
I serve Deschutes County residents who are women , either pregnant or newly delivered, and children
from birth to age five. I provide important nutrition information, health history screenings,
breastfeeding education and help, and certification to be on the WIC Program. I also teach nutrition
education classes for our clients. The WIC Program provides critical information to women who are
pregnant which directly affects their pregnancy outcomes. We provide important information to
parents of children ages birth thru age 5, information which impacts their current health, as well as their
long term health. What we do is critical for the citizens of Deschutes County as we help them to be
healthier and have children who are healthy and ready to learn when they begin school. We also
provide referral information to other organizations and critical resources .
I love what I do for Deschutes County. One of the reasons I have continued with the WIC Program for
nearly 24 years is because my job is so rewarding to me personally and professionally. I have raised two
sons during this time of working for the County, as a single mother. It has always been financially
challenging but I have continued because I believe in what I do, and I have felt the County cared about
me and my family.
Last year I supported my Union's decision to forego the cost of living increase we employees were
entitled to in July, under our contract, and chose to wait until April to have the COLA go into effect. I felt
we needed to do our part to help the County during a difficult financial time. The assurance was that
when our COLA went into effect, it would then be where we would start from for the next fiscal year.
Now we are in negotiations for a new contract and it is looking like the current offer would not honor
that. Because I have been with Deschutes County for such a long time, I do not get step raises. A COLA is
the only way my income can keep up with the rising costs of living. Without a COLA, and with the
proposed increase in health insurance premiums, it becomes increasingly difficult to just keep my head
above water. I am 62 and realize that most likely I will need to work until I am 68 before I can retire.
Therefore, this is a time when I need to be moving ahead financially.
While I am a County employee, I am also a taxpayer, and respectfully ask that you consider all
reasonable requests in our contract negotiations.
Thank you for your time and willingness to work with the employees as we move ahead for the greater
good for all.
((U_
Grace Kennedy
/jji,V
To: Deschutes County Commissioners
1300 NW Wall ST, Ste 200
Bend, OR 97701
RE: County's Bargaining Proposals
Dear County Commissioners Baney, Unger and Debone:
Hello, my name is Rosa McLaughlin and I work for Deschutes County Public Health Services as a Medical
Office Assistant/Interpreter. My job includes scheduling & rescheduling appointments for all twelve
clinical providers which, also includes all other locations such as Redmond Health Center, Downtown
Health Center, La Pine Health Center, answer the Spanish phone line and main phone line as needed,
accept birth and death certificate request forms with payments and route them to the Vital Records
person, interpret for all the various programs within DCHS department as needed which include Vital
Records, HIV program, Immunization Program, Family Planning Program, Healthy Start Program, WIC
program, Outreach Program, Environmental Health Services and Behavioral Health Services.
I am a single mother of two and I am not wiling to accept the current offer that is being proposed. I am
not going into money figures because it doesn't take a Brain Surgeon to figure that one out. In closing, I
will say that I have a passion for what I do here at DCHS. I truly enjoy serving the public and providing
support to my peers. I just feel that until those in the opposite bargaining unit can sit were I currently
sit here at Public Health that they would know exactly what I'm talking about. You see right now things
are going fair for me, but if these changes were to occur not only will me and my family suffer, but
many of my co-workers will suffer as well and it will not be a pretty picture.
Sincerely,
Rosa M McLaughlin
Medical Office Assistant/Interpreter
(541) 322-7421
Rosa_McLaughlin@co.deschute.or.us
May 19, 2011
Attention Deschutes County Commissioners:
It is with apprehension that I compose this letter to you. However, I've thought about this for a while
and I guess the best way is to just put my own story out there. I realize there are many different
circumstances and family situations — but this is my story and this is how the changes might affect me
and my family and why they scare me.
First of all, let me say, that I am thankful to have a job and even more thankful that this job comes with
the benefits it does. Without both of these things, I might very well be standing on a street corner.
To give you some background, I am a single mother with 4 children from a 17 year marriage that ended
because my ex spouse had addiction issues. I'm one of the few that takes care of her children all on her
own, without any assistance from the children's father and without any other aid.
Unfortunately, in addition to this, I've experienced some health issues (cancer), which has also put me in
debt - despite the great benefits we currently enjoy. And though I take pride in being very frugal, each
month it is still a struggle and I worry about unexpected financial blows (car problems, appliance failure,
further medical issues, etc).
I understand and appreciate the budget deficit and where Deschutes County stands as far as saving
money however possible — And I am very proud to work where I do. I recognize the amazing benefits we
have available to us. However, if we are to forgo a COLA — AND starting paying over $200 for our
benefits all in the same year, I believe this would be a great hardship for many to endure.
For myself, it would be quite devastating and I would need to seek additional employment, which would
be a hardship for me physically.
The best way for me to help you understand is to give you an actual break down of my own, personal
budget. As it will show you that I can not afford the loss of a COLA or step increase and give an
additional $172 out of my paycheck.
Currently I earn a decent enough wage — but I still claim as many allowances as I can, so that I may bring
home the most dollars each month. At this point, I bring home $2290 out of $ 2678 and these are my
monthly expenses:
• Rent $ 750
• Utilities $ 500 (Electric, phones, internet, garbage, water. Internet is required for my
children to access their homework assignments and I utilize a very frugal prepaid cell phone
plan. We do not have cable.)
• Car Insurance $ 160 (2 cars, both paid for — one for myself and one for my children)
• Medical out of Pocket $ 250 (payment plans with various medical entities stretched out as long
as possible AND includes current copays)
• Gas costs to travel to/from work $ 160-200 (at $ 40-50 week)
This leaves me approximately $430 per month for 4 people to live on — for food, household items and
other expenses that arise. (I have 4 children, but only 3 left living with me).
If I do not receive a COLA or a step increase, and lose another $172 - I'm left with less than $260 to feed
and generally take care of my family. I know I am not alone and am not the only one who will feel this
pinch in a very bad way.
I am not trying to bring you a sob story, nor do I want any attention brought my way. However, this is a
reality that we live in.
We do jobs for you and for the people. I believe we are paid decently — and each one of us has personal
circumstances. But the proposals I am reading about scare me.
Please reconsider making these changes in this way. There are other ways to trim the budget. Please
look at stretching out the increases (if you MUST increase) and implement the health care cost slowly
over the next few years. Do not take away COLA'S or step increases unless absolutely necessary.
Thank you for the opportunity to express my concerns.
Sincerely,
A decent, hardworking employee of Deschutes County, a taxpayer, union member, and a mom.
May ')511'. 2011
Deschutes County Commissioners
1300NW Wall St. Suite 200
Bend. OR 97701
RE: County's Bargaining Proposals
Dear County Commissioners Bane, Unger, and Debone:
My name is Susan Christensen, and 1 work for the Deschutes County WIC program. I
have worked for Deschutes County for 16 1/2 years. I can actually say it is the greatest
job 1 have every had. I have the privilege of working with the greatest team ever. I ani a
WIC certifier. I work with families that are struggling to survive in this economy. 1 am
able to give them helpful nutrition information to feed there family, referrals to other
organizations that can help them, listen to them. WIC also provides them with healthy
foods. Which is so important for all families? 1 have the privilege of serving people in
need of information on how to make ends meet, looking for answers, and wanting to do
the best for their children.
I must say 1 am shocked at the changes that have been presented to me at this time. With
so many of us trying our best to get by. Increasing utility bills...our electric increased by
14 % lastyear....water increasing....every time I turn around something is increasing.
My husband has taken two pay decreases in the last 1 '/z years. My husband and I are
nearing 60 years of age. We have no savings. The last few years has hit us very very
hard. We have no clue what the future will bring. He works for a flooring store that is
doing very poorly. By increasing insurance. it only pushes us a little farther down the
hill. I no longer get pay raises, so the only increase I get is our COLA, and longevity
raises. It will hit us very hard if the changes that are being requested are made. We are
all just trying to get by during the trying time. My current take home pay is $ 1,600 a
month.
I thank you so much for taking time to read this letter. It lets me know you really care. I
know you do. All I ask is that you listen to the people that care about you too. Again
thank you.
i i lc �-. l ,Iv2 ,_.,,L_ -7/(__,J
Susan K. Christensen
Deschutes County WIC Certifier
May 23, 2011
OREGON AFSCME
160 NW Irving Ave, Bend, OR 97701
541-318-1731/877-906-7970/Fax 541-318-1731
www.oregonafscme.com
Deschutes County Commissioners,
1300 NW Wall Street, Suite 200
Bend, OR 97701
Hand Delivered & Sent via email:
tammy bane@aideschutes.org, alan unger@co.deschutes.or.us tone debone u,co.deschutes.or.us,
board c co.deschutes.or.us
RE: County's Bargaining Proposals
Dear Tammy, Man, and Tony,
My name is Brenda Wood. I was hired by the county health department for WIC (Women
Infants & Children) more than 3 years ago. I have worked for the Bend/LaPine school district
during thc years I raised my three daughters. I worked mainly as an office assistant, but also spent
time as a FAN advocate (Family Access Network) and ELI, (English Language Learners) program
with local immigrant families. I have worked as a public employee for nearly my entire working
career, and I have been a Bendite for much, much longer. (I myself am a product of Bend schools.)
Most of my immediately family lives in Central Oregon as well. I love my community. I have seen
it morph from a small American town with one high school and barely 17,000 people, into a
beautiful, well -populated, well planned city with so much to offer residents. I love living and
working here and plan to "ride the storm" and remain in Bend as long as possible.
Concerning thc disagreements between the union and county administrators -
It's a hard place to be. The decisions that must be made are not easy. As a community member, I
feel we have ALL been forced to modify our lifestyles in some manner or other in the current state
of the economy. I also support our union representatives and think they have very valid arguments
and valid ideas.
My husband (roofer and general contractor) has felt the construction crunch as intensely as
many others. I personally do not feel "put out" to pay my current portion out-of-pocket expenses
for our fabulously generous benefits. I AM WILLING to pay a little more if needed for thc benefit
of :ALL. However, my family is struggling from month to month as it is and sometimes I feel we
are ONE paycheck away from defaulting on our home mortgage. Scary-- but unfortunately a reality
for many of us. Making a jump from $50 to over S200 per month out-of-pocket for insurance will
seriously force our personal budget into another major modification more like a downward spiral.
Sincerely,
Brenda \XTood
May 18, 2011
OREGON AFSCME
160 NW Irving Ave, Bend, OR 97701
541-318-1731/877-906-7970/Fax 541-318-1731
www.oregonafscme.com
Deschutes County Commissioners,
1300 NW Wall Street, Suite 200
Bend, OR 97701
Hand Delivered & Sent via email:
tamnn- banes Ztdeschutes.org, alae unger aco.deschutes.or.us tons- debone(co_deschutes.or.us,
board i)co.deschutcs.or.us
RE: County's Bargaining Proposals
Dear County Commissioners Banes, Unger and Debonc:
Letters to the Commissioner Guidelines
My name is Amber Clegg and I work for the Behavioral Health Department. 1 coordinate our
Mental Health Court program and work with our Family Drug court programs in Deschutes County.
I ani extremely committed to these programs and feel that they provide a tremendous benefit to our
community by providing treatment to criminal offenders in order to reduce recidivism and improve
people's lives.
I am extremely upset by the proposal that Dave Kanner has offered to our Union. It includes a
freeze on nn- salary. As I understand it, there would be no COLA, in addition to no step increase.
Also, 1 see that there is a recommendation of an increase in the health care premium to S65, with a
potential to increase it up to 20° o of the cost! This all adds up to a significant reduction in the
amount of money that 1 make. And I am not happy with the proposal to strip the EB;IC's authority,
an advocacy group that I find most beneficial.
Two years ago my husband lost his job due to the economy. He was forced to get a job 4 hours
away in order to help provide for our family. I cannot imagine how we can continue to manage with
the increase in gas and food prices coupled with the reduction in my compensation. I would like to
know how much money was spent on the Deschutes County Onsite clinic that was supposed to
have offset our healthcare costs. 1 see no benefit if we have to increase how much vvc pay- for our
monthly premiums.
1 am also concerned that Dave Kanner has chosen to take out "Board of Commissioners" in almost
all aspects of the proposed contract and, instead, inserted his name. It is disturbing that one person
would have the final power in almost all decisions made for the employees of Deschutes County.
Sincerely,
Amber Clegg
May 18, 2011
OREGON AFSCME
160 NW Irving Ave, Bend, OR 97701
541-318-1731/877-906-7970/Fax 541-318-1731
www.oregonafscme.com
Deschutes County Commissioners,
1300 NW Wall Street, Suite 200
Bend, OR 97701
Dear County Commissioners Baney, Unger and Debone:
My name is Kristin James and I work for the Child and Family Behavioral Health Program, as a
child and family therapist. I work hard to support children, and their families, in building healthy
relationships and supporting their mental and behavioral health so that they can maintain and be
productive members of our community.
I aria a new mother of a beautiful baby girl. I make around $3000 per month. This may
sound like a lot. However, after you take into account $1000 a month for student loans that allowed
Inc to get my degree and do my job, $700 for day-care for my daughter, and $200 for diapers and
food for my daughter, my monthly expenses are significant. This doesn't even take into account my
home mortgage, medical bills from having my daughter, etc.
The increase in medical costs, along with a pay freeze would greatly iinpact my, and my family's,
living situation. My husband and I have been surviving off of some of our savings every month.
These funds won't last forever. Mental Health took a 10°-b pay cut back in 2009 in order to support
the budget. I feel that taking another 7% freeze and increasing medical benefits, in addition to the
high cost of gas, puts myself, and many county workers in a bad financial place. This is really not
feasible for my famih's budget.
I recognize that your decisions around the budget are difficult. Please consider my message
when making your decision. Thank you so much for your time.
Sincerely,
Kristin James, LJ\IFT
Loretta Gertsch
From: Loretta Gertsch
Sent: Tuesday, May 17, 2011 10:19 AM
To: Tammy Baney; Alan Unger, Tony DeBone
Subject: Dave Kanner's May 13th Friday Update
Dear Commissioners
I would like to talk to You about Dave Kanner's recent Friday update in which he states that "The budget also assumes no pay
raises for non -represented employees and the represented employees of AFSCME, ILIOE, FOPPO and the Deschutes
County District Attorney's Association." I know for a Tact that bargaining with AFSCME members has not even reached
discussions on cost of living raises for the next contract. I find it very presumptuous and irritating that Mr. Kanner would
publicize that the new budget assumes that there will be no raises for AFSCME members. This tells me that Mr. Kanner is
not bargaining in good faith. The PECBA requires that the county and the union participate in good faith
negotiations for at least 1 50 calendar days before either party may unilaterally request the assignment of a
mediator. Mr. Kanner is not following the law.
Mr. Kanner is your employee. He answers to you and therefore his actions are reflected on you. Is this the
view that you would like your employees (voting members of the Deschutes County) to have of you? I would
appreciate a response to my concerns.
Loretta Gertsch
Deschutes County Mental Health
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1
May 24, 2011
Dear County Commissioners Baney, Unger and Debone:
RE: County's Bargaining Proposals
My name is Linda Barrett and I am the Behavioral Health/Child and Family Program Senior
Secretary/Mental Health Tech for Deschutes County. This program works with OHP children
and their families who have mental health needs in Deschutes County.
I provide support for approximately 35 therapists (who do an excellent job working with these
children and families and who care deeply about them and their future and well-being), a
program manager and two supervisors. I do feel blessed to have this job and to work with such
fine people. I have been with the County for almost 11 years.
However as blessed as I feel, I have to comment on the "proposed" changes that could possibly
happen. The first and foremost in my mind would be increasing my health care benefits
payment to a potential $222.80 per employee, which is ludicrous. As I recognize that we do
have a good deal where our benefits are concerned, one only has to look at our pay compared
to the private sector or even that of the federal government. With the high cost of food, gas (I
live in Redmond) and utilities, that kind of deduction to my salary would be devastating (and I
know it would hurt all of the therapists I work with) plus the fact that they are considering No
COLA raises again this year, possibly no step increases and longevity pay — wow!
I also would not want to see oversight in the grievance and disciplinary process taken away from
you, the County Commissioners and replaced solely by Dave Kanner, where are the checks and
balances in a process like that.
I truly believe that these proposed changes would have a significant impact on employee's
morale and motivation. Most employees would be willing to compromise to some degree
because they do understand the current economic climate, but most are simply not able to
afford the current proposal.
I urge you all to really consider what is at stake with these new proposals and do what is right
for our employees and our Community — Less money in the pocket means less spending in the
Community of Deschutes County.
Thank you for all of your work,
Linda Barrett — 541-322-7608
May 23, 2011
Deschutes County Commissioners
NW Wall Street, Suite 200
Bend, OR. 97701
Hand Delivered and Sent via email:
TammY.banev deschutes.org; alan.ungr@co.deschutes.or.us; tony.deboneco.deschutes.or.us,
board@co.deschutes.org
RE: County's Bargaining Proposals
Dear County Commissioners Bandy, Unger and Debone:
I am writing with concerns I have regarding the current bargaining that is going on between AFSCME
Local 3997 and Mr. Kanner, County Administrator and the other upper levels of County management.
I work for the Deschutes County Juvenile Department and was hired in 1989, but became a full time
employee in 1993. My job entails working with first time offenders, primarily in South county, and in
July, I will be the new coordinator for the JCP screening of youth at risk of offending ages 10 —14. I love
working with youth in our county and believe that what I do makes our community safer, holds youth
accountable and make our community a better place for adults and youth.
I have been following the negotiations closely and there are some points that I have grave concerns
about. I know that insurance increases have been bantered about at a cost potentially to rise to $222.80
per person. Currently it is my understanding that Mr. Kanner has suggested that increases will only be
$65 per person. That is much more reasonable, although even that increase will impact my monthly
budget. On top of the insurance concern, there is still negotiations going on regarding no pay raises — is
that Cola raises?, step increases?, longevity? Any of these factors again will impact my ability to cover
my monthly bills because as we all know the cost of living isn't decreasing.
Another concern I have is the proposal regarding the grieving process for future evaluations. Currently
the County Commissioners play a very important role in that process, but the proposal would replace
the County Commissioners and have Mr. Kanner doing the oversight in the grievance and disciplinary
processes. That bothers me — I am not sure that is fair to anyone who wants to have their opportunity to
discuss issues with the Commissioners, whom each of us had a voice in voting into office.
Another huge concern is the language used regarding job reassignments or change in job descriptions.
The way the proposal reads to me is that if I get a different job title, etc, then I will be on probation
which can lead to the possibility of being terminated which is why a person is put on probation. For
someone who has been with the county as long as I have, that just doesn't seem right. Currently with
the restructuring that is taking place in the Juvenile Department, I am unclear of how that may or may
not impact those of us in that department.
I thank you for your time in reading this.
Sincerely, l
Mary Fleischmann
61503 Camelot PI.
Bend, Or. 97702
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May 23, 2011
Dear Deschutes County Commissioners,
My name is Richard Bremner and I have worked in the Deschutes County
Building Services department as a janitor for almost 13 years. When I began in 1998 I
was coming off four years of crappy part-time jobs and wanted a a 40- hour a week job,
no matter what it was. The Sheriff's office needed a janitor and I jumped at the
opportunity .
When I began the pay was not much but the benefits were better than any I job I
had ever had. Four years ago , our bosses, Susan Ross and Rene Warner, wanted to find
out how the wages in Deschutes County Building Services department compared to other
counties in the state and found our compensation below the state average.
Susan Ross went to the Commissioners and asked for increased pay for all the
janitors in the department at every step level and the Commissioners came through and
approved the increases. There were 12 happy janitors that afternoon after Susan and
Rene announced the new pay rates that day.
Now times are tough in the state of Oregon and all counties. We haven't had a
COLA increase for awhile and the gas and food prices are going up and up and now the
Deschutes County contract negotiators want to increase the healthcare premium from $50
a month to $228 a month or $2,736 a year. That would be a hardship for me. That's
almost the entire amount I send to the credit union for savings.
Maintenance workers earn less money than almost all the departments in
Deschutes County yet we will pay the same amount in premiums as the highly
compensated positions.
That's all I have to say.
Yours truly,
Richard Bremner
G;
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Deschutes County Board of Commissioners
1300 NW Wall St., Bend, OR 97701-1960
(541) 388-6570 - Fax (541) 385-3202 - www.deschutes.org
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BUSINESS MEETING AGENDA
DESCHUTES COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
10:00 A.M., WEDNESDAY, MAY 25, 2011
Commissioners' Hearing Room - Administration Building - 1300 NW Wall St., Bend
1. CITIZEN INPUT
This is the time provided for individuals wishing to address the Board, at the Board's
discretion, regarding issues that are not already on the agenda. Citizens who wish to speak
should sign up prior to the beginning of the meeting on the sign-up cards provided. Please
use the microphone and also state your name and address at the time the Board calls on you
to speak. PLEASE NOTE: Citizen input regarding matters that are or have been the subject
of a public hearing will NOT be included in the record of that hearing.
2. A PUBLIC HEARING and Consideration of Signature of Order No. 2011-
012, Approving the Baker -Donohue Annexation into Deschutes County Rural
Fire Protection District #2 — Laurie Craghead, County Counsel
Suggested Motion: Move signature of Order No. 2011-012.
3. CONSIDERATION of Signature of Document No. 2011-273, a
Memorandum of Understanding between Deschutes County and the
International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 701, regarding a Union
Agreement - MOU with IUOE Local 701 — Erik Kropp, Administration; Chris
Bell, County Counsel
Suggested Motion: Move signature of Document No. 2011-273.
4. CONSIDERATION of Signature of Order No. 2011-014, Extending the Fee
Reduction for Temporary Restaurants until October 31, 2011 — Eric Mone,
Environmental Health
Suggested Motion: Move signature of Order No. 2011-014.
Board of Commissioners' Business Meeting Agenda Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Page 1 of 8 Pages
5. CONSIDERATION of Approval of Financial Support to Environmental
Health to Cover Fee Waivers for Benevolent Organizations — Eric Mone,
Environmental Health
Suggested Motion: Move approval of the fee waivers.
CONSENT AGENDA
6. Signature of Resolution No. 2011-021, Appointing a Financial Assistance
Administrator for Health Services, and Authorizing the County Administrator
to Approve Related Documents
7. Signature of Order No. 2011-009, Declaring Some County Personal Property
Surplus and Authorizing its Sale
8. Signature of Resolution No. 2011-032, Transferring Appropriations in the
Humane Society of Redmond Fund
9. Signature of Resolution No. 2011-033, Transferring Appropriations in the
Deschutes County 911 Building Construction Fund
10. Signature of Resolution No. 2011-034, Transferring Appropriations in the
Deschutes County RV Park Fund
11. Signature of Resolution No. 2011-044, Transferring Appropriations in the Solid
Waste Fund
12. Signature of Resolution No. 2011-045 Transferring Appropriations in the IT
Reserve Fund
13. Signature of Resolution No. 2011-046, Transferring Appropriations in the
Sheriffs Office Fund
14. Signature of Resolution No. 2011-047, Transferring Appropriations in the GIS
Dedicated Fund
15. Signature of Resolution No. 2011-049, Transferring Appropriations in the
Deschutes County Health Benefits Trust Fund
16. Signature of Resolution No. 2011-050, Transferring Appropriations in the
Deschutes County General Fund — Clerk -s Office
17. Signature of Resolution No. 2011-051, Transferring Appropriations from the
General Fund to the RV Park Fund
Board of Commissioners' Business Meeting Agenda Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Page 2 of 8 Pages
18. Signature of Resolution No. 2011-052, Transferring Appropriations in the Fair
& Expo Center Fund
19. Signature of Letters Reappointing Eric Beck, Jim Clinton, Tom Davis and
Michael Fisher to The Upper Deschutes Watershed Council Board of Directors,
through January 31, 2014
20. Signature of Letters Accepting the Resignation of Glen Bates and Sami
Fournier from the Bicycle & Pedestrian Advisory Committee, and Thanking
them for their Service
21. Signature of a Letter Accepting the Resignation of Tom Farruggia from the
Howell's Hilltop Acres Special Road District Board of Directors, and Thanking
him for his Service
22. Signature of a Letter Appointing Gary 011erenshaw to the Howell's Hilltop
Acres Special Road District Board of Directors, through December 31, 2012
CONVENE AS THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE 9-1-1 COUNTY
SERVICE DISTRICT
23. CONSIDERATION of Approval of Weekly Accounts Payable Vouchers for
the 9-1-1 County Service District (two weeks)
CONVENE AS THE GOVERNING BODY OF THE EXTENSION AND 4-11
COUNTY SERVICE DISTRICT
24. CONSIDERATION of Approval of Weekly Accounts Payable Vouchers for
the Extension/4-H County Service District (two weeks)
RECONVENE AS THE DESCHUTES COUNTY BOARD OF
COMMISSIONERS
25. CONSIDERATION of Approval of Weekly Accounts Payable Vouchers for
Deschutes County (two weeks)
26. ADDITIONS TO THE AGENDA
Board of Commissioners' Business Meeting Agenda Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Page 3 of 8 Pages
PLEASE NOTE: At any time during this meeting, an executive session could be called to address
issues relating to ORS 192.660(2) (e), real property negotiations; ORS 192.660(2) (h), litigation;
ORS 192.660(2)(d), labor negotiations; or ORS 192.660(2) (b), personnel issues.
FUTURE MEETINGS:
(Please note: Meeting dates and times are subject to change. All meetings take place in the Board of
Commissioners' meeting rooms at 1300 NW Wall St., Bend, unless otherwise indicated. I_fyou have questions
regarding a meeting, please call 388-6572.)
Monday, May 23
10:00 a.m. Board of Commissioners' Meeting
1:30 p.m. Administrative Work Session — could include executive session(s)
Wednesday, May 25
7:30 a.m. Legislative Update (conference call)
10:00 a.m. Board of Commissioners' Meeting
1:30 p.m. Administrative Work Session — could include executive session(s)
Monday, May 30
Most County Offices will be closed to observe Memorial Day
Tuesday, May 31
6:00 p.m. Board of Commissioners' Public Hearing on Proposed Comprehensive Plan Update
Wednesday, June 1
10:00 a.m. Board of Commissioners' Meeting
1:30 p.m. Administrative Work Session — could include executive session(s)
Thursday, June 2
10:00 a.m. Children & Families' Commission Retreat/Work Session, at Bend Park & Rec Office
Monday, June 6
3:30 p.m. Public Safety Coordinating Council Meeting
Board of Commissioners' Business Meeting Agenda Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Page 4 of 8 Pages
Wednesday, June 8
7:30 a.m. Legislative Update (conference call)
10:00 a.m.
1:30 p.m.
Board of Commissioners' Meeting
Administrative Work Session — could include executive session(s)
Monday, June 13
10:00 a.m. Board of Commissioners' Meeting
Wednesday,
10:30 a.m.
1:30 p.m.
Friday, June
7:30 a.m.
Wednesday,
7:30 a.m.
10:00 a.m.
1:30 p.m.
June 15
Oregon Youth Challenge Graduation — Fairgrounds, Redmond
Administrative Work Session — could include executive session(s)
17
Chamber of Commerce Town Hall Breakfast — State of the County — Bend Golf &
Country Club
June 22
Legislative Update (conference call)
Board of Commissioners' Meeting — includes budget adoption
Administrative Work Session — could include executive session(s)
Monday, June 27
10:00 a.m. Board of Commissioners' Meeting
1:30 p.m.
Administrative Work Session — could include executive session(s)
Wednesday, June 29
10:00 a.m.
1:30 p.m.
Board of Commissioners' Meeting
Administrative Work Session — could include executive session(s)
Monday, July 4
Most County Offices will be closed to observe Independence Day
Board of Commissioners' Business Meeting Agenda Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Page 5 of 8 Pages
Wednesday, July 6
10:00 a.m. Board of Commissioners' Meeting
1:30 p.m. Administrative Work Session — could include executive session(s)
Thursday, July 7
8:00 a.m. Regular Meeting with Sisters City Councilors — Sisters City Hall
Monday, July 11
3:30 p.m. Public Safety Coordinating Council Meeting
Wednesday, July 13
10:00 a.m. Board of Commissioners' Meeting
1:30 p.m. Administrative Work Session — could include executive session(s)
Thursday, July 14
7:00 a.m. Regular Meeting with the City of Redmond Council, Redmond City Hall
Friday, July 15 — Tuesday, July 19
National Association of Counties Conference, Portland
Wednesday, July 20
1:30 p.m. 1:30 p.m. Administrative Work Session — could include executive session(s)
Thursday, July 21
4:00 p.m. Bend Metropolitan Planning Organization Meeting
Monday, July 25
10:00 a.m. Board of Commissioners' Meeting
1:30 p.m. Administrative Work Session — could include executive session(s)
Wednesday, July 27
10:00 a.m. Board of Commissioners' Meeting
1:30 p.m. Administrative Work Session — could include executive session(s)
Board of Commissioners' Business Meeting Agenda Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Page 6 of 8 Pages
Monday, August 1
10:00 a.m. Board of Commissioners' Meeting
1:30 p.m. Administrative Work Session — could include executive session(s)
3:30 p.m. Public Safety Coordinating Council Meeting
Wednesday, August 3
10:00 a.m. Board of Commissioners' Meeting
1:30 p.m. Administrative Work Session — could include executive session(s)
Monday, August 8 — Tuesday, August 9
Association of Oregon Counties Regional Summit — Silverton
Wednesday, August 10
10:00 a.m. Board of Commissioners' Meeting
1:30 p.m. Administrative Work Session — could include executive session(s)
Monday, August 15
10:00 a.m. Board of Commissioners' Meeting
12 noon Commissioners' Meting with Department Heads
1:30 p.m. Administrative Work Session — could include executive session(s)
Wednesday, August 17
1:30 p.m. Administrative Work Session — could include executive session(s)
Thursday, August 18
4:00 p.m. Bend Metropolitan Planning Organization Meeting
Monday, August 22
10:00 a.m. Board of Commissioners' Meeting
1:30 p.m. Administrative Work Session — could include executive session(s)
Wednesday, August 24
10:00 a.m. Board of Commissioners' Meeting
1:30 p.m. Administrative Work Session — could include executive session(s)
Board of Commissioners' Business Meeting Agenda Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Page 7 of 8 Pages
Monday, August 29
10:00 a.m. Board of Commissioners' Meeting
1:30 p.m. Administrative Work Session — could include executive session(s)
Wednesday, August 31
10:00 a.m. Board of Commissioners" Meeting
1:30 p.m. Administrative Work Session — could include executive session(s)
Deschutes County meeting locations are wheelchair accessible.
Deschutes County provides reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities.
For deaf, hearing impaired or speech disabled, dial 7-1-1 to access the state transfer relay service for TTY.
Please call (541) 333-6571 regarding alternative formats or for further information.
Board of Commissioners' Business Meeting Agenda Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Page 8 of 8 Pages