Most public employees in Washington have a right to form unions or associations and collectively bargain with their employers. We work collaboratively with the labor groups representing City employees.
Find specific bargaining agreements and other details below, plus information about collective bargaining rights and applicable Washington State laws.
Labor Agreements and E-Team Handbook
To request an accessible version of any of these documents, contact Human Resources.
Collective Bargaining Rights
In Washington State, the Public Employees Collective Bargaining Act (RCW 41.56) gives public employees the right to form their own union or join an established union in order to bargain collectively with a public employer. City of Bellingham management and labor organization representatives work together to negotiate collective bargaining agreements that govern wages, hours, and working conditions. Approximately 85-90% of City employees are represented by one of nine active labor organizations.
