Shortly after the decision was stated, the DSA received e-mails and calls from members stating that “pay parity” between the Law Enforcement and Detentions/Court classes should be a focus for the association, since the possible consideration of consolidation is no longer an issue. Here is my concern with the suggestions (salary comparisons) that have come to our attention: every suggestion that has been brought to our attention involves seeking more money for higher wages with no reference to any medical or health benefits, staffing levels, working conditions, or retirement issues.

Early next year, we will begin the process of contract negotiations, and it appears that the current focus is on the hourly rate and nothing else. Some of you will look at the hourly rate, but the majority of you have repeatedly voiced your concerns when it comes to medical, staffing, and retirement. Negotiations Chairman Dave Gilmore has assembled a negotiations committee consisting of members from our various ranks and classes. These members have expressed their commitment to represent everyone with full consideration and utmost respect.

By now, many of you are aware of the governor’s proposed 10 percent across-the-board state budget cuts, which if imposed, are going affect all levels of state government. Part of the budget fix that is currently being proposed is early release of several thousand state prison inmates with the idea that the release will both lower the cost of running the state’s prison system and alleviate prison overcrowding.

The Legislative Analyst’s Office (LAO) has drawn up an alternate budget plan that in short could be considered as the backup plan to the early release proposal, since the prospect of early release is not receiving the support anticipated by the governor.

The Plan B approach is to realign state parole. In other words, several thousand parolees in San Diego County would be placed in the hands of our probation department. This plan is being recommended with the argument that the county can provide closer and better services to those on parole at a county level instead of the state level.

The problem, as we see it, is the criteria that will be set for a revocation of said parolees. For incarceration of a parolee to occur, a violation will only be imposed if the parolee is convicted of a new crime. Parole violations, as they are currently stated, will not establish enough cause for a revocation. Again, this is plan B, but be aware that plan A (early release) does not appear to be much better, since we know that staffing levels are low. It’s only a shell game at our expense.

As part of our community outreach, the DSA will be participating in the “Great Strides” walk to help find a cure for Cystic fibrosis. The walk will take place on May 17 at De Anza Cove East Mission Bay. Director Matt Clay has been diligently working with the folks at CF to coordinate our participation in this worthy event. We encourage everyone to please mark their calendars and set this date aside. Our involvement in this event is key to their success, so please take the time to sign up and join us on May 17.

Our dinner dance was a huge success and all of us at the DSA hope everyone who attended had a great time. We took your comments to heart and presented the event as the membership wanted it done. Congratulations to all of the winners, and we promise that next year will be even larger and just as much fun.

Lastly, I wish Lt. Jon Holmerud the very best on his retirement. On several occasions, you took the time to just sit down and educate me on several of the issues key to our profession and association. May you and Robbie enjoy every moment.

Take care, stay healthy, and be safe.