Union workers represented by San Mateo County’s Human Services bargaining unit began a two-day strike today after “no substantial movement” was made in contract negotiations last week.
The Human Services bargaining unit is one of 11 units at AFSCME Local 829 that represent San Mateo County workers. Last month, a three-year labor contract was signed with the other 10 bargaining units representing about 800 workers.
A video posted to social media by ABC7 reporter Matt Keller this morning showed hundreds of sign-waving strikers outside 455 County Centerin Redwood City.
In response to the strike action, the county said it has implemented a contingency plan that will keep most services running. Expected impacts can be found on the county site here. They include closures of the David Lewis Center, Shasta Clinic and Pharmacy, the EPA Clinic, with no mobile clinic services at the North Fair Oaks Community Center or Redwood City Caltrain Station. Mobile clinics will continue shelter services, the county site states.
In a statement, the county said it believes the new contract approved with the other 10 units is “is generous and equitable” and hopes “those in the Human Services Unit will reconsider the offer that’s on the table.” To see some specifics on that contract, go here.
