Novato City Workers Strike Over Wages, Staffing Amid Measure M Funding

Municipal workers in Novato, including street maintenance crews, building inspectors, parks and recreation coordinators, and city planners, went on strike due to stalled contract negotiations and concerns over staffing shortages. The workers, represented by SEIU Local 1021, argue the city has the funds to increase wages, citing Measure M, a sales tax increase approved by voters to generate $10 million annually for public services, but claim the city has not been transparent or committed to using these funds to improve worker compensation or staffing levels. The city counters that it has offered raises up to 11% over three years, with some adjustments reaching 24%, while trying to maintain financial sustainability. The strike has led to disruptions in services such as building inspections, gym and summer camps, and other public services, with city administrators implementing contingency plans to reduce community impact. Union members emphasize a critical retention issue, noting one in five employees has been with the city less than a year, and some have left for better-paying jobs in neighboring jurisdictions. The strike remains ongoing as negotiations continue amid community support for the workers' demands.