Teamsters Local 856 Votes to Strike Amid Contract Negotiation Standoff

1,500 Workers at West Contra Costa Schools Vote to Strike Amid Contract Dispute

Press Contact: Maura Drumm Phone: (215) 510-3735 Email: MDrumm@teamster.org

(RICHMOND, Calif.) – Facing stalled negotiations, 1,500 members of Teamsters Local 856 have voted in favor of a strike at the West Contra Costa Unified School District (WCCUSD). This pivotal move sets the stage for the next phase of the impasse procedure if an agreement remains elusive.

The Teamsters have been locked in negotiations for over six months, aiming to secure a contract that addresses critical issues like staffing levels and wage increases. The previous contract lapsed on June 30, 2025.

Peter Finn, Secretary-Treasurer of Local 856 and Director of the Teamsters Public Services and Health Care Division, emphasized the crucial role of these workers, stating, “Teamsters are the backbone of the West Contra Costa Unified School District and should be treated as such. Workers know the essential services they provide to students and their families throughout the region and won’t settle for less than they deserve. Striking is always a last resort, but the school district has left us little to no choice.”

Teamsters at WCCUSD perform essential roles across more than 50 school campuses, including clerical, food service, maintenance, paraprofessional, and security jobs.

With a membership exceeding 20,000 in Northern California, Teamsters Local 856 continues to advocate for fair labor practices. More information can be found on their official site, teamsters856.org.