Since April, SEIU 1021 members working for the City of Richmond have been bargaining for a new contract. Their contract expired June 30, and the City has recently started cancelling bargaining sessions and asking to postpone previously scheduled meetings.

Meanwhile, Richmond residents and workers alike suffer under a pervasive understaffing crisis caused by the City’s refusal to recruit new workers and retain the ones they have. Currently, the vacancy rate is 11%, nearly double last year’s 6%, a clear indication that city leaders including Mayor Eduardo Martinez and Richmond City Council need to take urgent action.

That’s why, according to SEIU 1021 City of Richmond Chapter President Kevin Tisdell, the membership voted by 96% to authorize the bargaining team to call for a strike if it becomes necessary. “We are here voting today because the City of Richmond’s negotiations team has left us no choice. For months, we have shown up to the table ready to bargain in good faith. We’ve been clear about what we need: fair wages, safe working conditions, and staffing levels that allow us to perform our jobs without being stretched to the breaking point. But what have we gotten back? Delays, disrespect, and a hiring system that leaves us short-staffed. As the work and complaints pile up, the community suffers!”

“This 96% YES vote sends a clear, united message to the city administration: We will no longer accept being overworked, underpaid, and disrespected!”

City workers have put 35 proposals across the bargaining table, and the City so far has responded to only four! This is a clear-cut case of failing to bargain in good faith.

Support Richmond workers by sending an email to the Mayor and City Council telling them they need to come to the table and get their dedicated workforce a fair contract now!