AMEA Negotiations Progress—Important Update Inside!

AMEA member,

Wednesday was a big day for the AMEA negotiations team, as it was our sixth negotiations session for the next MOU. Negotiations began on June 26th, a bit later than usual as a result of the ongoing class and compensation survey but are progressing quickly.

You can read the last update here.

Here is the good news. The City has raised its general wage increase package and has indicated an openness to discussing additional compensation items for many AMEA members.

The not so good news. There’s still some distance between the City and AMEA when it comes to key items for AMEA members—like wages and certain specialty pay. We’re not quite there yet, but we’re pushing hard to close the gap.

Here is what’s next. The AMEA negotiations team will meet next week to prepare for our next negotiations session scheduled for September 15. We will report any progress after that session.

If it appears that negotiations are proceeding slowly, it’s a reflection of how hard your AMEA team is fighting for each AMEA member at the table.

The AMEA team consists of AMEA President Jonnae Barreras, First Vice President Jason Perez, Second Vice President Steve Goodwyn, Secretary Heather Madrick, and Treasurer Rich Sauceda. Additionally, OCEA staff members Veronica Rodarte, Michelle Rubio, and Alyse DeCavallas serve as part of the team.

Together they bring decades of experience negotiating for AMEA members and workers throughout Orange County!

In Solidarity,

Team AMEA

If you have any questions about negotiations, you can contact a member of the AMEA Board.

Publication Date: September 5, 2025