Dozens of IHSS caregivers, union representatives and community members spoke during public comment at the Sept. 23 Shasta County Board of Supervisors meeting urging the county to finalize a contract and raise pay for In-Home Supportive Services providers.

Speakers described IHSS caregivers as essential to keeping seniors and people with disabilities safe at home and said many caregivers earn wages near or below minimum wage without benefits. A member of the bargaining team told the board that if an impasse persists and the dispute proceeds through fact-finding without resolution, “Shasta County will have to pay $1,000,000 annually in penalties to the state,” a claim made during public comment to emphasize the fiscal and programmatic risk of failing to settle.

The board moved the IHSS item into closed session as listed on the IHSS Public Authority agenda. When the county reconvened in open session, County Counsel Joe Larmer reported that the closed session produced no reportable action. The board did not release details of any bargaining offers or deliberations discussed in closed session.

Several speakers asked the board to negotiate in good faith and find resources to increase caregiver wages. Supporters said increasing IHSS pay would both improve caregiver recruitment and retention and reduce long-term costs by avoiding institutional placements. Board members acknowledged community concern and said they would continue to pursue options, noting county budget constraints and the complexities of program funding and state rules.

The board did not adopt a new IHSS wage or contract on Sept. 23; further negotiations and potential board actions were indicated but not scheduled publicly during the meeting.