Union Helps Compton Employee Collect Almost $92,000 in Unpaid Wages

Local 3947 Sergeant of Arms – Fracisco Guetierrez, President Lupita Gomez- Duran, City Attorney Perrodin, Legal Technician Sandra De Dios, Vice President Jose Lozano

By Andrew Perry
Vice President, AFSCME District Council 36

City of Compton rightfully paid back wages to Legal Technician Sandra De Dios, in the amount of $92,000, for working out of class for an extended period of time.


Over the years, the dedicated members of AFSCME Local 3947 have faced numerous challenges stemming from unstable management, budget deficits, and unfortunate layoffs. This situation has forced our members to shoulder increased workloads, often without the corresponding compensation they rightfully deserve. The city administration's reluctance to provide adequate remuneration has further compounded the difficulties faced by our members.


The ever-changing landscape of Compton's leadership, with at least 6 City Managers and 4 different City Attorneys since 2015, has created an environment characterized by inconsistency and a lack of accountability within city hall.


In response to these challenges, AFSCME Local 3947 has taken a resolute stance to hold the city accountable and ensure that our members receive fair compensation for their hard work, particularly for performing additional duties known as Out of Class/Move Up Pay. 


Local 3947 President Lupita Gomez said, "Thanks to the unwavering persistence of AFSCME 3947, administrative staff in Compton have achieved substantial extra duty pay increases, some dating back to 2015, totaling more than 20%. This victory marks a significant milestone for our local, which has tirelessly fought for fair compensation on behalf of its employees."


Notably, the recent approval by the City Council of a payout exceeding $90,000 for our member, Sandra De Dios, who worked out of class in the City Attorney’s Office, stands as a testament to the impact of the Local's advocacy.


This is a small victory, and I’m glad that we were able to secure the compensation our hardworking members deserve. However, our commitment remains unwavering, and we will continue our efforts until every member receives the compensation stipulated in our contract. That is all we are asking for.

Our struggle for fair treatment and equitable compensation occurs in parallel with our ongoing negotiations for a contract that expired in 2019. Regrettably, the city's current offer of a three-year contract with 0% wage increase does not align with our members' needs and aspirations.


Luis Schmidt, AFSCME Local 3947 Business Representative, has proven himself as a steadfast leader, a fierce negotiator, and a tireless advocate for the rights of workers. When asked how De Dios got that huge sum of backpay, Schmidt said, "Because she has a great, strong, freaking union!"


We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to member Sandra De Dios for her support, and we acknowledge City Attorney Perrodin for standing with us in our fight for fairness and justice.


AFSCME Local 3947 remains committed to its mission of securing fair treatment, equitable compensation, and a better future for all its members. President Lupita Gomez said, "Together, we will continue to stand strong and united in our pursuit of justice."

Location: Compton, CA, USA

Comments

  1. AnonymousNovember 15, 2023 at 10:04 PM

    Congratulations! Thank you for sharing the victory!

    ReplyDelete

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