Summary:
Boulder County workers vote 442-221 to form the BCEU, marking a historic milestone.
The BCEU is the largest new collective bargaining group in Colorado in over a decade.
Union leaders emphasize the need for better pay, benefits, and working conditions.
High turnover rates and equity concerns for bilingual employees highlighted.
BCEU will negotiate directly with county commissioners for improved conditions.
A Milestone for Boulder County Workers
On Thursday, hundreds of Boulder County workers made history by voting to establish the Boulder County Employees Union (BCEU). This significant decision came after a years-long effort to organize employees from nearly all county departments.
The vote resulted in a 442-221 majority in favor of unionization, marking the BCEU as the largest new collective bargaining group in Colorado in over a decade. The BCEU will be affiliated with the Communications Workers of America, representing over 1,400 eligible workers.
Brianna Barber, a county employee and union leader, expressed pride in the accomplishment, stating, "This has been years in the making. We’re excited to begin bargaining with county leadership to improve working conditions and support the vital services we provide to our community."
Who's Included?
While most departments are included in the BCEU, a few, such as the County Attorney’s Office, District Attorney’s Office, and Sheriff’s Office (which is already organized under the Fraternal Order of Police), will not be part of the union.
Melany Niemann, a communication specialist with Boulder County Public Health and a member of the organizing committee, noted that the push for unionization began over two years ago, especially after a 2022 state law expanded collective bargaining rights for county workers. Employees were motivated by various factors, including the desire for higher pay, better benefits, improved working conditions, and a stronger work-life balance.
Voices for Change
Alberto de los Rios, another organizing committee member, highlighted the need for a stronger voice for frontline workers in decision-making processes. He emphasized that the union effort was a collective initiative aimed at advocating for better employment quality and celebrating the passion for public service among employees.
Concerns about retaliation while advocating for needs were raised, although there were no clear reports of such incidents. Niemann pointed out the high turnover rates in the Public Health department since the COVID-19 pandemic, which has increased reliance on temporary workers and added strain on existing staff.
Additionally, Niemann raised potential equity issues faced by bilingual employees who struggle with the demands of writing case notes in English after meeting with Spanish-speaking clients, noting that the 5% extra pay for bilingual skills is insufficient.
Looking Ahead
As the vote concluded, Niemann conveyed optimism about the union's future, stating, "It’s not going to be a landslide, but we’re going to win." The BCEU will engage directly with county commissioners in bargaining discussions moving forward.
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