Solano County Workers Gear Up for Potential Strike Amid Contract Negotiations

In Solano County, a storm is brewing as employees prepare for a potential strike following stalled contract negotiations with the County Administration. On November 13, hundreds of County workers will gather for ‘Strike School,’ organized by local unions including IFPTE Local 21, SEIU Local 1021, and IUOE Local 39. This event aims to educate members about their rights to strike and the laws that protect them during labor actions.

Month after month, employees have faced mounting frustration over the lack of progress in negotiations. After several pickets and rallies aimed at raising awareness about their plight, workers, who provide essential public services, are beginning to feel that they have no other choice but to prepare for a strike.

The Impact of Stalled Negotiations

Employees have repeatedly voiced their concerns to Supervisors, sharing data and personal testimonies regarding their difficult working conditions, outdated benefits, and inadequate resources to perform their jobs effectively. “Our members provide critical services to the residents of Solano County, whether it's supporting neglected children, ensuring families have access to nutritious food, or facilitating Medi-Cal enrollment,” stated Layla Gray, a Mental Health Clinical Supervisor and IFPTE Local 21 member. She emphasized that negotiating a fair contract is vital for retaining the workforce necessary for delivering essential services.

The situation has grown dire. Many staff members find themselves overworked with limited resources, necessitating their ability to strike for better terms. “We are hemorrhaging staff to Contra Costa, Marin, and other comparable agencies,” commented Tazamisha Alexander, an SEIU member working as an Eligibility Benefits Specialist. “When we can't recruit and retain staff here in Solano, it directly impacts public services for our community. Solano County must bargain in good faith with us.”

The Call for Change

Union representatives are urging County management to understand the repercussions of their inaction. Jeffrey Eichenberger, a Stationary Engineer in Solano County and part of the IUOE Local 39 bargaining team, stressed the community's need for County management to recognize and appreciate the workers' contributions to public safety and welfare. “As Solano County workers, we demand that County management show that they value our contributions to this community's well-being, safety, and future by fairly settling contracts,” he said.

Despite the strife and increasing tension with the County Administration, union leaders remain hopeful that their efforts to educate and unite workers will generate the momentum needed for progress. Many believe that a well-prepared workforce is more empowered to navigate and stand firm in negotiations.

What to Expect at Strike School

Date: Thursday, November 13
Time: 5:30 PM
Location: 1000 Kentucky Street, Fairfield, CA 94533 (Fairfield Community Center)

Participants are encouraged to wear union-themed attire. The event will feature several speakers who will address the significance of solidarity and the rights workers hold under the law. Union leaders aim to instill a sense of empowerment among workers, equipping them to advocate for themselves and their workplace rights effectively.

As the situation unfolds, the communities of Solano County and its leaders will undoubtedly be closely watching the actions of union members and the response from County officials. The collective determination of these workers showcases not only the fight for fair labor practices but also highlights the resilience and advocacy of public service employees in the face of adversity.

In light of these ongoing developments, the question remains: how will County administrators respond, and will they choose to engage in meaningful negotiations before the workers take the step of striking? The outcome will surely impact both the workforce and the essential services provided to the citizens of Solano County.