City workers renegotiate

One week after Chico firefighters rolled back pay increases to help the budget-strapped city, 200 municipal workers have agreed to do likewise in a new contract their union will sign this morning (Oct. 23).

Members of SEIU 1021 will forgo their raises for this year and next, plus increase their contribution to health-insurance premiums by 25 percent. The affected employees include administrative and clerical staff, maintenance crews, mechanics and park rangers.

In the news release announcing the decision, union shop steward Jim Nebel said, “Our people routinely show their commitment to their community every day on the job. And when the city faces a real crisis like this year’s budget, we can be counted on to help.”