The County concluded negotiations with CNA on Friday, March 8, 2002 and CNA has ratified the County's offer for a one year contract extension. We entered into negotiations with CNA because of our nursing recruitment problem and our salaries are not competitive with our comparative agencies and local hospitals. The following summarizes the major elements in the Memorandum of Understanding extending the term of the current Memorandum of Understanding by twelve months through March 27, 2004: General Salary Increases Salaries will be increased by 6% effective March 31, 2002, and by 4% effective March 30, 2003. Health, Dental and Vision Benefits Any changes in Health, Dental or Vision benefits negotiated with AFSCME Local 829 in November 2002 will also be implemented for CNA-represented employees. Re-Openers The County and the Union may each reopen the contract on a maximum of two issues in March 2003. These re-openers may not include any proposals relating to wages or benefits. TermThe term of the Memorandum of Understanding is extended by an additional twelve months with a new expiration date of March 27, 2004. |