Dear BCEA Member,
Thank you to everyone who responded to the 2026 BCEA Negotiations Survey. A total of 67% of the members completed the survey, whose valuable feedback will directly guide our bargaining priorities. The resulting message was clear, and we appreciate the time taken by respondents to share their critically important perspectives.
Based on the survey results, the top priorities identified by members are:
- General wage increases
- Increased City contributions to medical premiums
- Increases to leave accruals (vacation, sick, etc.)
- An additional paid holiday andincreases to standby pay
- Increases to special pays (bilingual/special assignment), increases to uniform and boot allowance, and addition of certification pays
In addition to these ranked priorities, members shared important concerns in the narrative responses. Common themes included:
- Recruitment, retention, and turnover challenges
- Equity concerns for long-tenured and top-step employees
- Holidays, leave, and overall work-life balance
Your BCEA Negotiations Team will ensure these priorities and concerns are reflected in the proposals we present to the City. Your bargaining team will meet on Wednesday, March 4th to begin drafting our first proposal.
We anticipate beginning negotiations with the City in late March or early April. In the meantime, your team is actively preparing by reviewing data, developing proposals, and building a strategy to secure the strongest possible contract for BCEA members.
To receive real-time updates throughout negotiations, text “BCEA” to 94033 to sign up for Text Message Alerts.
Thank you again for your participation and continued support. We will keep you informed as negotiations move forward.
In solidarity,
BCEA Negotiations Team
