Champaign County employees vote overwhelmingly to strike if necessary

In an nearly unanimous demonstration of unity and determination to win a fair contract with fair pay, no more delays, Champaign County workers represented by AFSCME Local 900 have voted to authorize a strike if the union bargaining committee finds it necessary.

At a news conference on May 29 outside the county courthouse, Local 900 president Cecelia Phillips announced that 90% of eligible employees voted, and 96% of votes cast were Yes to authorize a strike.

The vote was conducted May 27 and 28.

"Nobody wants to strike—we just want to do our jobs, and to be paid fairly," Phillips said. "But with our 96% vote to authorize a strike if necessary, we are saying loud and clear that we are serious, and we’re prepared to do what’s necessary to secure the contract we deserve."

The union's previous agreement with the county expired at the end of last year; now nearly 150 days later, county representatives at the bargaining table still have failed to come forward with the fair wage increases and affordable health insurance they know is needed to settle a new contract. The county's inadequate proposals to date will not lead to a new agreement.

"It’s the lack of leadership from management’s side of the table—their lack of initiative, urgency, and ultimately their lack of respect for the women and men who do the real work of Champaign County government—that has brought us here today," AFSCME Council 31 staff representative Natalie Nagel said. "To county leaders—specifically, Steve Summers, Michelle Jett, Emily Rodriguez and every member of the county board—we’re disappointed in your actions, and inaction, so far. But it is not too late. This moment is an opportunity. Come to the table prepared to make real progress and you have a willing partner in our union."

AFSCME members work in every Champaign County department, including in the Courthouse, Brookens Administrative Center, the Highway Department, Animal Control, the Coroner’s office, and the County Jail.

"We are the ones helping residents, reviewing procedures, answering calls, inspecting roads, keeping records, and so much more," said Oscar Alvarado, a member of the AFSCME Local 900 bargaining committee. "We’re proud of the work we do. And like every working person, we’re simply asking for what’s fair—a wage that keeps up with the cost of living, and health care that doesn’t punish us for getting sick. For the ability to take our kids to the doctor without worrying about co-pays we can’t afford. For prescription medications that don’t break the bank. For a raise that doesn’t get wiped out by inflation or rising insurance costs. That’s not too much to ask."

"Champaign County works because we do. And make no mistake, without us on the job, county services cannot function," Phillips said. "County leaders have a choice: If they continue down the same path, we are prepared to stand together and strike for fairness. Or they can meet us at the table and make a fair agreement their priority."