For More Information:
William R. Steinhaus
Dutchess County Executive
Telephone: (845) 486-2000, FAX:
(845) 486-2021,
countyexec@co.dutchess.ny.us
August 20, 2002
Dutchess County Executive
William R. Steinhaus announced today that the membership of the County Civil
Service Employees Association (CSEA) has ratified overwhelmingly a new labor
agreement with Dutchess County Government. The CSEA is the County’s largest
bargaining unit and represents the majority of County employees. The four-year
pact will run retroactively from January 1, 2001, through December 31, 2004.
“CSEA employees are a vital
force in the provision of services to Dutchess County residents. This agreement
provides a fair and equitable compensation package for these highly valued and
dedicated employees,” said the County Executive.
“Providing stability to the
County’s workforce with a four-year contract, especially in the current
difficult economic climate, benefits our employees and allows the County to
focus on continuing to provide important services to the residents of our
communities,” noted Steinhaus.
The new wage agreement provides 3% annual wage increases
for each of the four years. It also includes higher mileage reimbursements for
using personal vehicles on county business, enhanced longevity payments, and
participation in the New York State Retirement System’s early retirement
incentive. Adjustments to the health insurance plans will maintain affordable
health care coverage and provide an enhanced optical plan.
The agreement will be submitted
to the Dutchess County Legislature for approval at a special meeting scheduled
for August 27, 2002.
CSEA is the second union to settle a labor agreement with the County. The Police Benevolent Association (PBA) representing Deputy Sheriffs settled a four-year agreement which runs from January 1, 2000, through December 31, 2003. The only remaining union to have failed to settle with the County is the DCSEA-CWA, which represents employees of the Sheriff’s office at the County Jail.
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