Results were initially delayed when a state election overseer sealed the ballots over concerns about voting procedure. When ballot counting finally began last night, the process was “somewhat lengthy, but orderly”, according to El Camino Hospital employee and union stewart Kary Lynch. He reported that out of 956 ballots, only approximately two were challenged.
Employees at the hospital joined the SEIU in 2001. This year saw several notable union events, including a move this summer to charge dues to all workers, regardless of whether they wanted to join the union. Contract negotiations ended in stalemate this autumn, with an administration-imposed contract that required workers to pay for some of the their healthcare for the first time. For in-depth coverage of the election and what’s next for workers at El Camino Hospital, turn to the Jan. 18 print edition and check back online.
