HomeMy WebLinkAboutLetter from Butte County employee Lauren Cole regarding contract negotiations October 10, 2013 80ARD OFsummon
Lauren Cole OCT 16 2073
138 Nantucket Way ORQVILLE nat..
Yuba City, CA 95993
Dear Supervisor Lambert,
My name is Lauren Cole and I have been an employee of Butte County for over eleven years as
a Medical Records Technician, Senior. I am married and have two daughters.
I am writing in regards to the current negotiations. My take home pay is within of a few dollars
of what I took home in 2006.As you know, we have not received a cost of living increase in
several years; although the cost of living has sky rocketed. Until January of this year, I was able
to keep the HMO health insurance which was a blessing as my husband has many critical health
issues. I was forced to enroll in a lesser quality insurance plan because of the increase of cost.
Now, the least expensive plan will be increasing to an exorbitant amount. I will once again be
resigned to take this plan as it is all I am able to afford. So far this year, my husband has only
been hospitalized twice and we are in debt well over $5,000.00.
I think a fair COLA and an increase of the county contribution to our health care is due to your
faithful employees. We work hard to make sure this county runs smoothly and efficiently. I
don't believe balancing the budget on your workers back is the answer.
I am considering divorcing my husband on paper, so that he can get Medi-Cal. As it is now, my
daughter is on reduced cost lunches. I drive 88 miles round trip each day to come to my job. I
enjoy working for Butte County, although I am not sure how much longer I will be able to.
Are you aware that neighboring Yuba County pays 100% of their employees' health care
coverage and pay 80% of the spouse and families coverage? Also, their "base" plan is a step-up
from the least expensive plan I have to enroll in. I think it's time that Butte County makes a bold
decision and decides to care for their employees and do right by them as they do for you and
the county on a daily basis. I am sure you would like to hear that your employees are proud to
work for Butte County.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Ct.
Lauren Cole
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