President, William Abernathie
Chief of Labor Relations, M. Eagleson
Senior Field Representative, Nancy Tate
Senior Field Representative, Mary Blanco

President's Message

May 2008

MetLife - Your New Life Insurance Carrier with Reduced Rates

           I have been involved in searching for a new life insurance carrier for several months ever since our rates were dramatically increased without any prior notification. Our current provider, Standard of Oregon raised the insurance rates very suddenly and without giving us any time to prepare the policy holders for the increase. Because of that increase, there were several active and retired members who choose to cancel their policies. I am happy to report, we have been able to find a new carrier, with a significant reduction in rates and some added new benefits. Look for a decrease in rates of around 15%.

           SEBA will be partnering with MetLife to bring you a new product with better benefits at a lower rate. We are putting the finishing touches on the policy and will start mailing out information to the active membership in the very near future.

           I didn't forget about our retired brothers and sisters out there on a fixed income. There will also be a major reduction from the rates you now pay if you choose to switch over to MetLife. You will also be receiving the mailing within the next few weeks.

           And remember as always, life insurance policy payments are payroll deductible, which makes it much simpler to maintain your coverage. Look for the mailer soon.

SB 1019 Revisited

           Senator Romero is starting to rattle her sword in regard to Senate Bill 1019 again. To refresh your memory on this one, SB 1019 deals with taking away our rights to have our disciplinary hearings closed to the public. There is no credible reason why this legislation should be passed. The committee that was formed with PORAC taking the lead has continued to meet on this and stay informed of any new developments.

FTO Arbitration Ruling

           I am happy to report the arbitration ruling in regard to disciplinary action being taken against deputies when they fail their field training officer program has been received. The ruling was favorable to SEBA members and I am hopeful this will resolve the issue surrounding the whole process. This was one of those times SEBA and the Sheriff's Department were not able to come to an agreement about actions being taken against our members. The arbitration process was used for that purpose with positive results. (Refer to Chief of Labor Relations message for further information.)

Board of Supervisor Elections

           Now that the filing period has closed for the three Board of Supervisor seats that are up for election, the picture is much clearer. The First, Third and Fifth Districts are the ones I am talking about. SEBA has endorsed and is financially supporting Supervisor Josie Gonzales for the Third District, Supervisor Brad Mitzelfelt for the First District and San Bernardino City Councilman Neil Derry for the Third District.

           Supervisor Josie Gonzales was fortunate enough to not have any challengers file papers to run against her. I believe that to be a testament to the great job she has been doing in her district. Supervisor Brad Mitzelfelt for the First District has several challengers in that race. Brad has been very busy in his district facilitating positive change throughout the high desert.

           City Councilman Neil Derry is challenging the incumbent Dennis Hansberger. Neil has been and continues to be a strong supporter of public safety. He has been instrumental in increasing the size of the San Bernardino Police Department and finding additional funding sources. Mr. Derry believes it is time for a change in the district. Neil has received many endorsements from local and state law enforcement and firefighter associations. SEBA and its membership are 100% committed in this election to Third District Supervisor.

California Peace Officers' Memorial Ceremonies

           The Memorial services will be held May 8th and 9th this year in Sacramento at the Peace Officer Memorial site. There will be a total of nineteen law enforcement officers honored during the ceremony. Nine of those officers died in the line of duty in 2007. The other ten officers were individuals who lost their lives in past years, but were not recognized for one reason or another.

           I would recommend you attend this event if at all possible. It is a very moving experience to observe firsthand. Hope to see you there.

President, William Abernathie
Chief of Labor Relations, M. Eagleson
Senior Field Representative, Nancy Tate
Senior Field Representative, Mary Blanco