SMC Workers Secure Raises, New Paid Holiday Under Tentative Agreement

REDWOOD CITY, CA — More than 2,000 public sector workers are voting on a tentative agreement that would boost wages, create a new paid holiday, and increase San Mateo County's share of employee healthcare premiums.

According to SEIU 521, which represents county healthcare administrators, IT professionals, library staffers, call center employees, and other public workers, union members began voting on the agreement Monday.

Pending ratification by both parties, the deal would see county workers receive their largest wage boost in more than two decades, rising 15 percent over three years. The agreement will also make Cesar Chavez Day a paid holiday, starting next year, and add more floating paid days off for wellness.

The county also agreed to increase its contribution to employee insurance plans and up compensation for bilingual and on-call positions.

"Throughout the negotiations, our members were focused on bringing forth solutions that enable us as county workers to best serve our San Mateo County residents and the needs of our community," said Mercedes Segura, SEIU 521 Chapter Chair. "This agreement is an investment toward improving county services and staffing, and lays the foundation to continue positioning San Mateo County as the best place to live, work, and raise our families.