Municipal workers in Colwood have voted overwhelmingly in favour of strike action as collective bargaining between the City of Colwood and CUPE Local 374 remains unresolved.
The union, which represents approximately 70 City employees, announced that 92% of members voted in favour of a strike mandate during a vote held on June 9th.
CUPE 374 says the key issue in negotiations is the City’s proposal regarding health-related leave.
The union argues workers are being asked to accept changes to existing leave provisions in exchange for wage increases that are consistent with settlements reached by other municipal workers in the region.
“The result sends a clear message that workers believe the employer needs to take a different approach,” said CUPE 374 President Shireen Clark.
The City of Colwood disputes the union’s characterization of the proposal and says no cuts to employee benefits are being proposed.
According to the City, its latest offer includes cumulative wage increases of 10.4% over three years, enhanced sick leave, expanded benefits and the addition of four days of flexible well-being leave that could be used for personal or family wellness needs, including medical appointments.
“We know residents may hear differing descriptions of the issue,” said Colwood Chief Administrative Officer Jason Johnson.
“The City is not proposing to take away paid medical appointments. The proposal is to provide that flexibility through enhanced sick leave and Well-being Leave.”
The City says its proposal includes wage increases of 3.75% in the first year, 3.25% in the second year and 3.40% in the third year, along with increases to several extended health benefits and updated shift premiums.
The collective agreement between the City and CUPE 374 expired on December 31st, 2024. Negotiations began in December 2025 after what the City described as delays outside the control of both parties.
The two sides have been working with a mediator from the BC Labour Relations Board since April but have not reached an agreement.
Before any strike action can occur, the parties are awaiting an Essential Services Order from the Labour Relations Board. Once the order is issued, the union could be in a legal strike position if a deal is not reached.
The City says it has developed an essential services plan to maintain critical operations should job action occur.
Residents may experience delays in some municipal services, while staffing at the Colwood Medical Clinic and community events, including the Eats & Beats Beach Party scheduled for July 25th, could also be affected.
Both sides say they remain willing to continue negotiations in hopes of reaching a settlement.
CUPE 374 represents municipal workers responsible for services including road and park maintenance, public infrastructure, administration and municipal operations throughout Colwood.
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