Members Gain Momentum in Contra Costa County Negotiations

Days after hundreds of Local 21 members and allies pressured the Board to delay imposition and direct the CAO to attend negotiations, Local 21’s Bargaining Team met with the County negotiators and the CAO to explore ideas on closing the gap on key outstanding issues. Bargaining sessions have since focused on identifying areas of agreement and exploring options. At the August 15 bargaining session, both parties worked collaboratively to address each other’s concerns, agreeing on a possible outline for a framework for settlement. Based on this progress, the County Negotiator recommended to the Board of Supervisors that imposition be removed from its August 16 agenda.

 Though no agreement has been reached, both the County and Union feel positive about reaching a deal in the coming weeks. Supervisor Uilkema commended Local 21’s leadership for its respectful approach to the process, and Supervisor Piepho acknowledged the sacrifices that employees would be making.

“We worked together to develop a realistic framework for settlement. Collaboration was the key,” said Local 21 Chapter President Sue Guest at the August 16 Board meeting, “This has been an extremely difficult process. Trying to find the perfect balance to minimize the impact to all stakeholders is not an easy task.”

The Bargaining Team addressed the general membership on August 17 to request additional authorization to make a formal counter proposal for their next bargaining session.