Miami-Dade Commissioners defeated by a 7-6 vote Thursday evening a proposal that would have required four county unions to contribute 5 percent more of their salaries for health benefits.
Earlier, on Thursday morning, the commission chamber was packed with officers who, after taking salary and benefit cuts, were asked to concede an additional 5 percent for the cost of their healthcare.
Officers have already conceded over $50 million in benefits, such as overtime, to prevent layoffs. For some officers that meant 13 percent cuts.
The Police Benevolent Association, Government Supervisors Association of Florida and two other unions would have been affected by the county's decision.
"This board knew the consequences of reduction in the millage. The vast majority of you voted for it. When I proposed it, I told you that this day would come that a number of unions would be in front of you," Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos Gimenez said.
The county has tentatively agreed on new contracts with other unions, including those representing solid waste employees and water and sewer employees. They will vote on their new contracts later this month.
Before the commissioners reached a decision, PBA President John Rivera spoke out against the proposed concession.
"These men and women who go out every day to fight what you fear should not have to beg," said Rivera. "They give so much more."
Commissioners were previously scheduled to discuss the matter on Dec. 19 but postponed the decision. Commissioner Pepe Diaz told union members that he would need all information necessary to make a decision by the Jan. 5 meeting.
