The Los Angeles City Council took the first step on Tuesday to freeze medical insurance costs for new retirees covered by four bargaining units that rejected a new contract offer.
The move approved by the council means employees in those units will have to cover the costs of increased health benefits when they retire out of their own pockets.
The four units, representing some 4,000 employees, rejected a proposal to increase their retirement contributions and instead will have to take additional furlough days next year.
"We are focusing on problem solving," Council President Eric Garcetti said. "Fourteen of 18 units approved a new agreement where they will contribute toward their health costs and retirement.
"This action moves forward with our agreement as we strive toward fiscal responsibility."
The contract will return to the City Council in 30 days for final approval. Labor contracts require two votes, officials said.
The four units represent deputy city attorneys, operating engineers, clerical workers and plant equipment operators.
Councilman Bill Rosendahl said there was still time for the unions to reconsider.
"I implore you to reconsider," Rosendahl said. "We simply can't afford to go on the way we have."
Garcetti said the agreement represents structural reforms which will save the city millions of dollars over the years.
Melissa Howard Daisy Fuentes Melissa Sagemiller Eva Green Dominique Swain
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